Nagaland Great Hornbill Notebook

The Great Indian Hornbill, now an endangered species, is found in the forests of Nepal, India, the Malay peninsula and Sumatra. Also called the king of birds for its majestic beauty and vivid colours, it is a vital part of Naga culture and rituals. The beak of the hornbill is highly prized and is used as a decorative element in Naga  headdresses and houses. The hornbill feathers are considered a symbol of honor, richness, warrior prowess and other indicators of social status in Naga society. The Hornbill Festival of Nagaland is a cultural extravaganza held every year in the first week of December as a tribute to this beautiful creature.