Padma Shri awardee from Nagaland, Guru Sangyusang Pongener, received a warm welcome at Dimapur Airport today after returning from New Delhi, where he was conferred the Padma Shri Award.

 

The 81-year-old renowned Ao Naga folk artist from Ungma village in Mokokchung district was honoured with the award by President Droupadi Murmu during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23 for his lifelong contribution to preserving and promoting Ao Naga folk arts, traditional songs, dances and culture.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Guru Pongener thanked God for the honour and expressed gratitude to the Central and State governments, as well as the Department of Art and Culture, for their support.