The festival was formally inaugurated by Governor Nikhil Kumar in presence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio at the permanent venue 12 kms south of this capital town.
Cultural troupes from Nagaland and other north eastern states took part in dances in front of hundreds of spectators, including a sizeable number of foreign tourists.
The extravaganza is aimed at showcasing both traditional and modern aspects of Naga life and culture in its entirety.
On the opening day, the Naga King Chilli Eating Competition generated much excitement with three foreign tourists, including a girl from Liverpool in the UK volunteering.
She and an MP from Myanmar could swallow five Naga King Chillies, the hottest in the world after Mexican ones, while a Zeliang Naga youth ate 14 astonishing all.
Poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar also inaugurated an art exhibition-cum-sale at World War-II Museum.
In addition to the regular features, certain new events have been added involving event managers by the state department of culture and tourism.