In a refreshing break from formalities, the Tsüngremmung Festival Workshop organized by ASENTEN was celebrated without a chief guest, without speeches, and without the usual pomp. Held at the Assam Rifles Ground, Mokokchung on August 2, the event saw people of all ages coming together in a spirit of joy, community, and cultural pride.
The one-day workshop featured re-enactments of traditional Ao customs, oral storytelling, games, food, and vibrant displays of traditional attire. A pork-eating competition drew cheerful crowds, while older participants shared stories with younger ones in a rare moment of inter-generational exchange.
“We don’t want a festival of pomp and speeches,” event coordinator Rongsennungla had earlier told MT. “We want to return to the free-spirited celebrations of our ancestors—authentic, participatory, and meaningful.”
ASENTEN had also voiced concern over the growing disconnect among Ao youth, shaped by modern lifestyles and social media. The workshop aimed to counter that by creating a genuine space for cultural immersion—without fanfare, just togetherness.
Operating without institutional funding, ASENTEN is a not-for-profit organization. This year, however, the group has received sponsorship from the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) following Rongsennungla’s presentation of a vision for a more structured and meaningful celebration.
Seen in the images are models showcasing traditional attire and a pork-eating competition held as part of the event.
