The tenth edition of North East Festival, which is arguably the region’s biggest and most colourful events in Delhi, kicked off on Friday with an inaugural ceremony at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, after two years of hiatus amid pandemic lockdown. It’s Christmas time; the winter sun feels warm, and the venue is decked up in beautiful lights and traditional decorations.
The first day of the festival saw government officials, tour operators, development partners and other stakeholders come together to discuss parameters for building a formidable investment climate that will not just transform the economic fortunes of the region, but also build a blooming business and tourism destination in India. The second day of the festival saw an impressive gathering of foodies and shoppers thronging the sprawling complex to savour the flavours and explore the diverse handloom and handicrafts from the region.
said Nikita Sehgal, a visitor.“It’s amazing to be here again. I am a big fan of North East food, weaves, and music. I tried rice beer and king chilli dark chocolates for the first time. I also bought a couple of Naga garments and a necklace from a Manipuri stall. I am so glad that the organisers got Bipul Chettri and his band. Love their music and style. The open mic sessions were equally fantastic.
Winters and duck go hand-in-hand. The Khati Axomiya Exaaj stall, which has been a part of North East Festival since 2014, is seeing huge demand in duck fry. “Yesterday our Duck Fry got sold out, so today we have increased the quantity. It’s our signature dish. Other best sellers include Pork with Til and non-veg thalis,” said owner Priyanku Bharadwaj.
Samdup Bhutia, of Flavours of Sikkim, too, was happy with the crowd. “Visitors are willing to try out new dishes; this makes me really happy. Some of our most-loved dishes include Tai-Pho, Himalayan Pork Sausage, and Shaphalay.”
Chief Organiser of the festival, Shyamkanu Mahanta said that after two years of lockdown, we are elated to be back to our favourite place, Delhi, the city which has always showered love on us profusely. “The energy here is fantastic; we’re seeing great footfall, as expected. The ‘Made in North East’ products are able to gain huge attraction. By creating powerful narratives around the history of the technique and translating that storytelling into art and fashion, our homegrown labels are doing a commendable job. As grassroots entrepreneurs, they generate cultural capital and employment and strengthen the eco system.
The day also saw fashion shows by Maxwell and Sampriti Goswami, and live musical performances by Achurjya Barpatra from Assam, Jessie Lyndoh from Meghalaya, Bipul Chettri and The Travelling Band from Darjeeling, and Delhi-based Ikka band.
