A grand homecoming and reception programme honoring Padma Shri awardee Guru Sangyusang Pongener was held on June 30 at Soyim Aonglenden, Ungma. The event was a testament to the village's deep pride in Guru Pongener, who was conferred the Padma Shri in the 'Unsung Heroes' category for his lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Ao-Naga folk arts, music, and traditions.
In his address, Guru Sangyusang Pongener expressed his deep gratitude to the President of India, the Prime Minister, the people of Ungma, the Ao community, the Government of Nagaland (GON), the Government of India (GOI), the Director of Art and Culture, the Deputy Commissioner, District Art and Culture, the Ao Senden, and the Ungma Council for their continuous blessings and support.
Reflecting on his lifelong journey, Guru Sangyusang shared that his interest in folk culture began at a very young age, crediting his parents and grandparents for laying the foundation. Emphasizing the need to go beyond merely preserving culture, he added that active practice and sharing are equally vital. Driven by this conviction, he co-founded the cultural group Naga Wadir with his friends, taking Ao Naga traditions to various parts of India.
Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, hailed the event as a historic and proud moment for the district, state, and nation. He noted that Guru Sangyusang has dedicated his entire life to preserving oral traditions and indigenous performing arts. As a recognized custodian of cultural heritage, he has successfully documented, preserved, and revitalized the folk traditions, songs, dances, and oral history of the Ao Naga Community. The DC concluded his speech by appealing to the youth to draw inspiration from unsung heroes like Guru Sangyusang and contribute to nation-building toward a developed India.
The reception programme was chaired by Guru Limayanger Tatar, with an invocation delivered by Rev. Talijungla, Associate Pastor of Women at the Ungma Baptist Church (UBC). Cultural performances were showcased by the Watemdong Cultural Club.
Short speeches were delivered by representatives from the Ungma Council, the Department of Art and Culture, Ao Senden, Naga Wadir, and the Pongen Kidong (Ungma), highlighting the community's collective pride. The vote of thanks was given by Lipokzulu Tatar, and the formal event concluded with a thanksgiving prayer offered by Rev. Wati, Pastor of UBC.
(Zuchumo Kithan, IA Mokokchung)
