Correspondent
MOKOKCHUNG, JUN 30 (NPN): A homecoming and reception programme in honour of Guru Sangyusang Pongener, Padma Shri Awardee 2026, was held at Soyim Aonglenden, Ungma on Tuesday.
Upon arrival at the village gate, Guru Pongener was accorded a warm welcome by the Ungma Village Council, where a brief reception prayer was held before proceeding to Soyim Aonglenden for the main programme.
Born on March 23, 1945, Guru Pongener mastered indigenous folk traditions through community involvement and mentorship, bridging oral cultural heritage with structured pedagogy. He is co founder and general secretary of the Naga Wadir Welfare Cultural Club, fostering cultural preservation through folk dance, music and community events.
He is widely acclaimed for his exceptional achievements and innovative contributions to Ao Naga folk arts. Over the past six decades, he has extensively enriched Ao Naga cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation and transmission to future generations.”
Under his leadership, more than 2,000 youth artists have been trained and over 100 apprentices mentored, with his original folk compositions performed on local, national and international platforms.
Guru Pongener has received numerous honours including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2002), the Guru title from NEZCC in collaboration with IGNOU (2012), and the Governor’s Award (2017). Since 2024, he has mentored students under the KALA DEEKSHA programme of the Ministry of Culture.
Speaking at the programme, Guru Pongener expressed gratitude to the people of Nagaland, stating that the award was a blessing bestowed by the community. He thanked the President and Prime Minister of India, the state government, and officials of Art & Culture and Mokokchung district for their support. He also acknowledged his wife’s encouragement throughout his journey and shared plans to open an academy for youth.
Earlier, short speeches were delivered by representatives of the Deputy Commissioner Mokokchung, Ungma Council, Department of Art & Culture, Ao Senden, Naga Wadir and Pongen Kidong Ungma. The programme also featured a special song presentation, Naklu Ken, by the Watemdong Cultural Club.