December 3, 2025: If Nagaland’s legendary Hornbill Festival is where culture takes centre stage, then Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has happily chosen to play lead guitarist—returning as the title sponsor of the “Toyota Hornbill Music Festival” for the fourth year in a row. And this year, the opening act quite literally brought the drums… and the drama. Japan’s world-renowned ensemble Drum Tao, also a Toyota brand ambassador, unleashed a spectacular performance that set the festival’s heartbeat racing faster than a Fortuner on an open highway.
The inauguration witnessed an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including Temjen Imna Along, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education & Tourism, Government of Nagaland, and Theja Meru, Chairman, TaFMA. Representing Toyota Kirloskar Motor were senior leaders led by Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director (Sales, Service & Used Cars), and Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Director. Together, they flagged off a celebration that blends cultural revival, artistic passion, and just the right amount of Toyota efficiency.
Speaking about Toyota’s long-standing partnership with the festival, Asazuma said, “Hornbill Music Festival represents the true heart and spirit of Nagaland. It celebrates the state’s vibrant culture, deep creativity, and timeless traditions. We are proud to collaborate with an event that brings people together and strengthens community bonds.”
Adding to this sentiment, Dalvi shared, “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of Nagaland for giving us this opportunity. Our association with this iconic event reflects Toyota’s long-term commitment to the state. Together, we hope to create new opportunities and support the region’s rich talent.”
And while music filled the air, Toyota ensured a little horsepower joined the harmony. The brand’s dedicated pavilion featured its complete product lineup—Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Innova Hycross, Vellfire, Hilux, Fortuner, Glanza and more—each subtly reminding visitors that while Nagaland celebrates tradition, Toyota continues to drive the future with hybrid electric technologies and thoughtful innovation.
Beyond the festival grounds, TKM’s journey in the Northeast has been equally rhythmical. With 58 touchpoints and growing, Toyota continues to strengthen its regional presence, echoing its commitment to accessibility, community engagement, and sustainable mobility.
About the Hornbill Music Festival:
Organised by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, the Hornbill Music Festival is part of the grand 10-day cultural extravaganza that showcases everything from traditional feasts and indigenous sports to art, music, and dance—a colourful window into the heritage of the Naga tribes.
In short: Toyota brought the cars, Drum Tao brought the thunder, and Nagaland brought the magic—making the 2025 edition of the Toyota Hornbill Music Festival a symphony of culture, community, and celebration.
