The Kohima Aor Telungjem (KAT) celebrated the Tsüngremmung Festival on August 1, 2025, at the Kisama Amphitheatre in Kohima with vibrant cultural performances, traditional games, and messages of unity and gratitude.
Padma Bhushan awardee, former Governor and Chief Minister Dr SC Jamir, addressed the gathering and described Tsüngremmong as a festival that brings the Ao community together. He called for continued unity, saying, “Nagaland is a land chosen by God,” and spoke about the historic arrival of Christianity in the state through Dr. E. W. Clark and its spread via Ao missionaries to other Naga tribes. Dr. Jamir also expressed concern over the fragmentation of the Naga movement, rising corruption, and lack of unity. He urged the Ao community to elect honest leaders for the betterment of Nagaland.
Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, in his message, highlighted that Tsüngremmong is a time to give thanks for blessings already received. “Those who give more praise receive more blessings,” he said, stressing the power of gratitude. He encouraged the youth to learn from history, embrace hard work, and preserve cultural identity by speaking and practicing the mother tongue.
Ao Senden President Marsanen Imsong also exhorted the gathering, while Dobashi Mokokchung, Lanutemshi Longkumer, gave a brief on the origin and significance of Tsüngremmong.
T. Chubayanger, President of Kohima Aor Telungjem, delivered the welcome address, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Convenor Lepzung Pongen.
The festival featured folk dances, folk songs, and traditional games presented by various unions under KAT. A highlight of the celebration was a Tug of War between Ao Legislators and Senior Officers versus KAT Sanen Luden. The event also featured a play performed by Dreams Unlimited.
The programme was compered by Narola Chuba, Vice Principal of Baptist College, Kohima, and Bendangsashi Walling, Associate Pastor at KABA.
