Art and Culture / Folk Traditions
Sangyusang S. Pongener of Nagaland has been awarded the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of Arts for his lifelong contribution to Ao Naga folk traditions. The honour recognises his role in safeguarding indigenous cultural expressions.
Born in 1945, Guru Pongener is an eminent Ao folk artist and composer from Ungma village in Mokokchung district. Over several decades, he has worked to preserve, document and transmit Ao Naga musical and cultural heritage across generations.
APSC relevance
Relevant for GS on tribal culture, indigenous art forms of Northeast India and national recognition of folk traditions.
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