Irish Band, Noted Historian at Nagaland's Hornbill Festival: Is Ireland Signalling Deeper Ties Beyond Delhi?

Ireland is expanding its cultural footprint in India, and this time, the focus is firmly on the Northeast. After its widely appreciated participation in Kolkata’s Durga Puja last year, Ireland has now been invited as a partner country for the world-famous Hornbill Festival in Nagaland — marking Dublin’s most significant cultural engagement in the region.Speaking exclusively to Times Now, Kevin Kelly, Ireland's Ambassador to India, said that culture has become Ireland’s strongest diplomatic bridge with India. “We are a tiny country. India is huge, and the best way we can raise our visibility and profile is through culture,” he said. “People here enjoy our music, literature, theatre, and art. So every year, we try to do something big — and not

just in Delhi or Mumbai.”Why Nagaland?Ambassador Kelly said that Ireland consciously chooses to move beyond India’s metros. "Last year, we had an amazing experience at Durga Puja in Kolkata. This year, we thought of Nagaland," he said, highlighting the state’s beauty, distinct culture, and landscapes reminiscent of Ireland. He added that Ireland was honoured to accept the Nagaland government's invitation to partner at this year’s Hornbill Festival.What Ireland Is Bringing to HornbillIreland’s presence at Hornbill will be extensive, featuring music, theatre, literature, and a flagship art installation.For music, Ireland is bringing a high-energy band named Bowen, created specifically for the festival. Several members come from the internationally acclaimed group The Mary Wallopers, known for performances at Glastonbury and major European festivals.In theatre, a Delhi-based group, Cavalia Theatre, will stage works inspired by Irish literary icon James Joyce.For literature, acclaimed historian Jane Allmire, an expert on India–Ireland historical ties, will hold several sessions.The centrepiece of Ireland’s showcase will be a 16-foot installation of Danu, the Celtic goddess, to be erected at the Hornbill venue in Kohima. “It will be the pièce de résistance,” Kelly said, crediting Ireland’s Honorary Consul in Kolkata for supporting the project.Diplomatic Message Behind the Cultural PushAddressing Nagaland’s sensitivities, Kelly acknowledged the region’s ongoing peace process and drew a parallel with Ireland’s own experience in Northern Ireland. “We are going with the full knowledge and support of the Government of India and the Nagaland government. We come as guests,” he emphasised.He added that Ireland’s participation underscores its intention to engage not only with Delhi but also with India’s diverse regional states. India is wide and varied. Hopefully, our presence in Nagaland is seen as a show of support and solidarity — and as a mark of respect for its rich culture.”Culture as Modern DiplomacyKelly noted that diplomacy today extends far beyond closed-door discussions. “Music, literature, history — all of this is part of diplomacy now. Ireland knows that well, and we have seen how India responds to cultural engagement,” he said.With Ireland set to make one of the biggest international appearances at Hornbill next month, all eyes will be on how the partnership adds a new cultural dimension to one of India’s most iconic festivals.