New Delhi: The 12th edition of the North East Festival is an immersive experience in the culture and flavours of the eight states and 200 communities of the north-east region of India. Whether you're a music lover, a foodie, or simply someone eager to explore different traditions, this annual event should sate you. The event opened on Friday and will run till Sunday at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium at India Gate.
The food zone attracted large crowds. The over 60 stalls took visitors on a culinary journey with regional specialties, such as smoked pork from Nagaland, bamboo shoot curries from Mizoram, pithas from Assam and Khasi-style pork ribs from Meghalaya. Some Delhi-based stalls creatively fused local tastes with northeastern flavours.
At a bustling Meghalaya food stall, Hima drooled over doh sniang nei Iong — pork cooked with black sesame seeds. "It is very popular, and we have a chicken version of it as well," she said.
Among the cultural performers who presented traditional dances, including the Maibi dance, Pung Cholom, Kartal Cholom, Leima Jagoi, Raas Leela, Sattriya and the bamboo dance, was Antara Darphang. Dressed in a mekhla and traditional jewellery, the 23-year-old performed the Assamese Bihu dance. She said, "I have come from Guwahati with 10 other team members and am super excited to be here."
The glamour edge — the fashion show — featured collections by 16 talented designers from the Northeast. Models walked the ramp to live music, weaving a narrative that captured the region's colours, tradition and aesthetics. But there was space also for folk artisans. Yoho from Nagaland happily said, "Over the years, I have experienced how this festival helps artisans like me. My woollen handmade products resonate with the winter season in Delhi."
The excitement reached its peak when Assam's celebrated singer Zubeen Garg took the stage, delivering a performance that left the audience spellbound. The festive atmosphere was amplified by rocking sets from Aryan Katoch, Jack of Spade'Z, Rocky Glock, Sheldawn, Ring Dangsha, Just Chorus and DJ Loki, each adding their own distinct flair to the celebration.
"I specifically came to the event for my first visit to hear Zubeen Garg," said collegian Kshitij. "I've always loved his music. I decided to linger on to hear the other artists. And the variety of food is amazing."
Organised by Socio-Cultural Trust Trend MMS, with the support of the Union ministry of development of the northeastern region, Delhi Police, and various central and state govt departments, the event aims to promote tourism, entrepreneurship and cultural awareness. Shyamkanu Mahanta, chief organiser of the festival, said, "This platform unites diverse traditions and paves the way for opportunities that benefit the entire region." The inaugural event saw addresses by key personalities, including chief guest Pabitra Margherita, Union minister of state for textiles.
At the B2B Tourism Meet, industry leaders convened to discuss opportunities in the Northeast. Padmapani Bora, IRS, secretary of tourism, and managing director, Assam Tourism Development Corporation, said, "The state offers everything from heritage and scenic beauty to fascinating nightlife and shopping experiences. With the International Tourism Mart in Kaziranga later this month, we want to spotlight the Northeast's tourism potential."