Popular Indian pop-rock group SANAM announced on Saturday morning that they will not be able to perform at this year’s Hornbill Festival in Nagaland. The cancellation comes in the wake of severe flight disruptions across India, which led to widespread cancellations and delays over the past two days.

The band had been scheduled to take the stage on Saturday evening, and their performance was among the most anticipated events of this year’s festival.

Band Explains Travel Collapse Despite “Every Possible Effort”

In an official statement shared early Saturday, SANAM expressed deep disappointment over the unavoidable decision:

“To our Nagaland family, we are truly heartbroken to share that despite every possible effort over the last two days, we will not be able to make it to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival this year. Due to massive flight disruptions across the country, hundreds of cancellations and indefinite delays, our travel plans completely collapsed at the last moment.”

The band detailed the extent of the disruption, stating that all their flights on Friday were cancelled, forcing them to spend the entire day at the airport searching for alternative routes.

“Late last night, we split the band across multiple flights this morning just to increase our chances of reaching you. Sadly, even those plans fell apart due to fresh cancellations and missed connections caused by long delays,”
the statement read.

With no feasible travel options remaining, SANAM said the cancellation was unavoidable.

“One of the Hardest Calls We’ve Ever Had to Make”

The group acknowledged the disappointment fans may feel but emphasised that the decision was made only after exhausting every possibility:

“We know how excited you were, and it breaks our hearts even more knowing how disappointed you must feel right now. Please know that cancelling this show was never a choice—it was an unavoidable situation beyond our control.”

Band Promises to Return to Nagaland

SANAM concluded the message with gratitude and reassurance:

“Nagaland, we promise we will be back for you. Until then, thank you for your love, patience, and understanding. With deep regret and love,
Band SANAM.”

The Hornbill Festival, known for its diverse cultural and musical programmes, continues despite the disruption, with organisers expressing understanding and hopes for the band’s return in the future.