A vibrant Flower Festival is set to take place from November 30 to December 8, 2024, at the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral in Kohima, Nagaland. This event coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Hornbill Festival, which is a significant cultural celebration in the state, running from December 1 to 10.

A Dual Celebration: Spiritual and Cultural

The Flower Festival aims to highlight the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral as both an important Christian pilgrimage site and a tourist attraction. The cathedral, which has become a significant spiritual landmark in Nagaland, is also recognized as one of India’s prominent Christian pilgrimage centers, as declared by the Government of India. The theme of this year’s festival, “Worship the Lord in Beauty” (1 Chronicles 16:29), reflects the spiritual and aesthetic significance of the event.

A Collaborative Effort Driven by the Community

Organized by a committed executive committee of local residents, the festival has been carefully planned for nearly a year. Father Vemedo Kezo, a priest at the cathedral, shared that the festival is a product of community enthusiasm and support. Despite challenges like securing sufficient volunteers and resources, the event has received backing from local Catholics and the broader Christian community in Kohima.

What to Expect at the Flower Festival

The Flower Festival 2024 will feature an impressive display of floral exhibitions, where visitors can view a wide variety of flowers arranged in creative and beautiful ways. In addition to these exhibits, there will be horticultural learning sessions, where visitors can gain insights into sustainable gardening practices and the importance of preserving nature.

Guided tours of the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral will provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the cathedral’s history, spiritual importance, and architectural beauty. These tours will also explore the cultural significance of the cathedral within Nagaland’s Christian community.

Promoting Environmental Stewardship

In line with the Vatican’s Laudato Si’ encyclical on environmental care, the festival will emphasize sustainability and organic farming. Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima explained that the diocese has adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using natural flowers instead of plastic ones, and promoting organic farming. The local women’s group at the cathedral has been actively involved in maintaining the campus with fresh flowers and plants, reflecting the commitment to eco-consciousness.

Festival Preparations and Closure

In the lead-up to the festival, the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral will be closed for maintenance from November 26 to 29 to prepare for the events. Once the festival begins on November 30, visitors will be welcomed to witness the grandeur of the festival and participate in the spiritual and cultural activities.

Conclusion

The Flower Festival in Nagaland not only celebrates the beauty of nature and flowers, but also promotes pilgrimage tourism and raises awareness of environmental responsibility. By bringing together spirituality, culture, and sustainability, this event will help position Mary Help of Christians Cathedral as a key destination for both tourists and pilgrims, fostering a deeper connection between the people of Nagaland and the wider world.