Nagaland’s Minister for Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, infused cultural warmth into his meeting with badminton legend Prakash Padukone and Ujjala Padukone, parents of Deepika Padukone. Presenting a locally sourced organic pumpkin, Along humorously linked it to Deepika’s role as Mastani in ‘Bajirao Mastani,’ subtly acknowledging Nagaland’s unique vegetables. Actively sharing Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival on social media, Along showcased the state’s rich cultural heritage. This meeting not only highlighted the significance of locally sourced produce but also symbolized Nagaland’s agricultural abundance through the organic pumpkin—a staple in the region. The minister’s updates on the Hornbill Festival offer a vibrant glimpse into Nagaland’s traditions.