The Delhi Ao Senso Telongjem (DAST) celebrated Tsüngremong, the traditional pre-harvest festival of the Ao Nagas, with great enthusiasm and cultural splendour at Barat Ghar, Jhareda Village, Delhi Cantonment, on August 1.
Tsüngremong is observed with prayers and thanksgiving for peace, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest. The celebration witnessed the participation of more than 500 people, including members of the Ao community, in-laws, friends, and well-wishers from across the Delhi-NCR region.
The celebration was graced by Vishwesh Negi, IFS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, as the Chief Guest and Sharon Longchari, NCS, Joint Resident Commissioner, Nagaland House, New Delhi, Government of Nagaland, as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries commended DAST for its continued efforts in preserving and promoting Ao Naga culture and traditions outside Nagaland. They encouraged the younger generation to remain connected to their cultural roots while contributing meaningfully to society.
The programme featured vibrant displays of Ao cultural heritage through traditional folk songs, dances, and cultural performances. Participants adorned in colourful traditional attire reflected the rich customs and identity of the Ao community.
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A major highlight of the celebration was the Traditional Cultural Song Competition, where participants representing different Ao groups performed age-old folk songs. The competition was held in the presence of Guru Sangyusang Pongener, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour for the cultural session. He applauded the participants for their talent and dedication and underscored the importance of preserving traditional folk music and indigenous cultural heritage for future generations.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by a prayer seeking peace, unity, and a bountiful harvest for all.
The celebration once again reflected the commitment of the Delhi Ao Senso Telongjem to preserving the cultural identity of the Ao Naga community while fostering unity, friendship, and a strong sense of belonging among Ao people residing in the National Capital Region.
