Guru Marlepden installed under Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme

An installation program for Guru Marlepden was held at his residence in Arkong Ward, Mokokchung on 16 July under the Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The Guest of Honor was I Temjen Tzudir, Coordinator of Ao Riju, Mokokchung.

Guru Marlepden while speaking at the program expessed his commitment to sharing knowledge with all residents of Mokokchung, expressing a willingness to assist those in need. He voiced concern over the potential loss of some languages in the Northeastern region and underscored his determination to preserve the Ao language and traditions through education for younger generations. Highlighting the importance of cultural love and understanding, Marlepden stressed that nurturing one’s culture from an early age ensured its continued existence. He urged everyone to educate young people about their cultural heritage from the outset, emphasizing the need to prevent cultural erosion. Marlepden also reiterated his dedication to aiding others in understanding their cultures from an early stage.

Guest of Honour I Temjen Tzudir, Coordinator of Ao Riju, Mokokchung, lauded Marlepden for achieving the title of Guru. Tzudir mentioned that, to his knowledge, there are six Gurus in Mokokchung District, with five from Ungma village, including Marlepden. He stressed that the word ‘Guru’ is derived from Sanskrit for ‘teacher’ and urged everyone to follow their teachings. He expressed hope that all Gurus, including Guru Marlepden, would preserve Ao culture, traditions, and advance the community. Highlighting the role of ‘Guru,’ he suggested all Ao Gurus to gather and urged them to teach essential cultural practices, from folk dances to folk songs, by establishing a cultural school.

The program was chaired by S Chuba Jamir, a retired government teacher. Guru Sangyusang Pongener, awardee of the Sangeet Natak Academy, demonstrated various tunes of Ao folk songs. Short speeches were delivered by Toshimeren, Chairman of Arkong Ward, Mokokchung Town, and Imolangba, Head Dobashi at the DC Office, Mokokchung.

MT