Nagaland is famous for its multi-cultural festival called ‘Hornbill Festival’. But did you know about the Hornbill Dance of Nagaland ? Now you know. The Hornbill dance of Nagaland is practiced and mastered by Zeliang tribe of Nagaland. The Zeliang tribe is an indigenous ethnic group primarily found in the northeastern region of India, particularly in the state of Nagaland. They are one of the many Naga tribes that inhabit this mountainous and culturally diverse area. The Zeliang people have a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in their traditions, customs, and way of life.
Hornbill Dance of Nagaland (Herie Lim)
Herie Lim, as the Hornbill Dance of Nagaland is called in local dialect, is possibly the most popular dance of the Zeliang tribe of Nagaland. It is a dance in tribute to the majestic Hornbill bird. It attempts to capture the movements and steps of the bird as the dancers dance like the flight of a Hornbill. It is performed by four male dancers and four female dancers. The dance is accompanied by a band of singers and a drummer and cymbalist.
A special song is sung during the Hornbill dance of Nagaland. It is called Ingaumerai . The song through its lyrics invites the young boys and girls to be dressed in their best attires and costumes and dance like the Hornbill which hover and circle round the canopy of the high trees.
It is said that in ancient times, a man transformed himself into a hornbill bird. Therefore, the hornbill dance of Nagaland is a tribute to that transformation. Performed on important occasions like Mileinyi and Hega festivals of Zelainge tribe, it attempts to capture the dignified movements of the hornbill and depicts through it the admiration and respect it commands.
During the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland (December 01-10), the dance is showcased with its rich favour and fervour. In conclusion, the Hornbill Dance of Nagaland, locally known as Herie Lim, is a captivating and culturally significant dance performed by the Zeliang tribe of Nagaland. This dance is a testament to the deep reverence and admiration the Zeliang people hold for the majestic Hornbill bird. As one of the many Naga tribes inhabiting the northeastern region of India, the Zeliang tribe has not only preserved their unique cultural heritage but also shared it with the world through this mesmerizing dance.
