DIMAPUR, JUN 23 (NPN): Ao folk artist Sangyusang S. Pongener, 81, from Ungma village, Mokokchung district, was conferred the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan during the second civil investiture ceremony held on Tuesday.
He was honoured under the “unsung heroes” category in the field of Arts for his lifelong contribution to preserving and promoting Ao Naga folk traditions and indigenous cultural heritage.
Dressed in traditional Naga attire, his presence drew applause from dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The ceremony also saw the conferment of Padma awards on several eminent personalities across fields. Former Supreme Court judge K.T. Thomas and journalist K Narayanan received the Padma Vibhushan.
In total, 65 Padma Awards were presented, comprising two Padma Vibhushan, seven Padma Bhushan and 56 Padma Shri awards, attended by top constitutional leaders and dignitaries.
