Kohima: Padma Shri recipient Sangyusang S Pongener arrived at Dimapur airport on June 25. Members of the Ungma Senso Telongjem Dimapur gathered to greet him. He just returned from New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu presented him the award at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23.
Pongener earned the honor for his work protecting Ao Naga traditions and folk arts. He established a cultural club to teach the youth and perform nationwide. He credits his father for sparking his interest in his ancestral heritage. The recipient accepted the award while wearing traditional Ao Naga clothing. He said, "This Padma Shri is for the preservation of our traditions and Naga culture."
He sees his traditional attire as a vital mark of identity. Music and dance live within these garments. Pongener worries the youth are losing their connection to their roots. He now hopes to open academies to keep the traditions alive. He claims he needs state funding to make these schools a reality. He stated he already asked the Central Government for financial aid to support this mission.
Comments