Fifth Note, a talented band from Nagaland, has won the prestigious 2024 Ticket to Hornbill competition, securing a grand prize of Rs 2 million. Officials have called it India’s largest band battle, showcasing 130 bands from across the country.

“This is a BIG one!” exclaimed Abu Metha, Adviser to the Nagaland Chief Minister, as he praised the band’s exceptional performance and tight coordination. The competition took place at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, near Kohima, and concluded with much excitement.

Nagaland’s Higher Education & Tourism Minister, Temjen Imna Along, and Abu Metha presented the award at the grand finale. Mizoram’s band, The Prophets, took the first runner-up spot, earning Rs 1 million, while Nagaland’s Project Anonymous placed second runner-up, winning Rs 500,000.

Other notable winners include:

• KAPOW from Delhi: Sennheiser Choice Award
• Project Anonymous: Best Vocalist
• Papersky: Best Drummer and Best Bassist
• The Prophets: Best Guitarist
• Yugen: Best Keyboardist

The event was held as a lead-up to the 25th Hornbill Music Festival, organized by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA).