Renowned cultural figure Guru Sangyusang Pongener has been conferred the Padma Shri Award 2026 in the field of Art for his lifelong contribution to preserving and promoting Nagaland’s rich folk heritage. President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Shri Award 2026 to Guru Sangyusang Pongener at the second Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday, June 23. The President conferred 65 Padma Awards, including two Padma Vibhushan, seven Padma Bhushan and 56 Padma Shri awards.
Pongener, 81, from Ungma village, has dedicated more than six decades to safeguarding traditional art forms and documenting folk traditions, earning recognition as one of the key custodians of Naga cultural identity. His work has been widely acknowledged for helping preserve indigenous heritage for future generations.
The Padma Shri is one of India’s highest civilian honours and is awarded for distinguished service across fields such as art, literature, education, public affairs, science, sports and social work.
Warm congratulations to Guru Sangyusang Pongener on being conferred the Padma Shri Award 2026 in the field of Art. His lifelong commitment to preserving the rich folk heritage of Nagaland over the past six decades is inspiring. I wish him continued success in all his endeavours. pic.twitter.com/1BAglqqUgu
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) June 23, 2026
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio congratulated Pongener on the prestigious recognition, describing his contribution as deeply inspiring. In a message shared on social media, Rio praised the awardee’s lifelong commitment to cultural preservation.
On the eve of Republic Day, the government had announced 131 Padma awards for 2026, including five Padma Vibhushan awards. The Padma Awards are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, across various disciplines including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports and civil service.
This year, a total of 131 Padma Awards have been announced, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. Among the awardees, 19 are women, while 16 individuals will be awarded posthumously.