Padma Shri awardee and renowned Ao Naga folk artist Guru Sangyusang Pongener has been felicitated by the Delhi Ao Senso Telungjem (DAST) office bearers in New Delhi, where he held a meaningful interaction with them.
The DAST leaders lauded Guru Pongener for bringing honour to the Ao community and encouraged him to continue promoting and sharing Ao cultural heritage with younger generations. The union also extended its best wishes for his long and prosperous life.
Meanwhile, Guru Pongener received a warm welcome at Dimapur Airport upon his return from New Delhi after being conferred the Padma Shri Award. The 81-year-old artist from Ungma village in Mokokchung district expressed gratitude to God for the honour and thanked the Central and State governments as well as the Department of Art and Culture for their support.
He also shared his aspiration to establish an institute with Central assistance to preserve and promote Ao Naga traditional arts for future generations.
Guru Pongener was received at the airport by members of Ungma Senso Telongjem and its federating units, along with family members, well-wishers and supporters.