The 39th edition of Longtrok Senden Ungma, a vibrant display of cultural traditions, in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Dimapur, was held at Yimtsungta Arok Sapang, Ungma on July 31. The event drew attention from various dignitaries, including Thsuvisie Phoji, NCS, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mokokchung who served as the special guest.
DC Mokokchung extended his greetings on the Tsungremmong festival, a pre-harvest celebration of the Ao community. In his address, he commended Soyim village for showcasing their cultural identity and unity, urging other Naga communities to take inspiration from their example. He emphasized the importance of preserving heritage and culture, noting that such unity fosters community strength.
“This year’s 39th edition of the celebration is a significant milestone and a testament to the efforts of the pioneers of this initiative,” he said. He praised the community for upholding and preserving their rich culture, heritage, identity, language, and customs.
He highlighted Ungma, the grand old village of the Aos, from which many other villages have originated. He acknowledged the community’s dedication to preserving their culture, stating, “To see your motivation to preserve your cultural heritage is impressive. If all tribes could initiate similar efforts, it would greatly benefit our community.”
He noted that despite being spread out in different places, the unity among the Ao people is a remarkable example for others to emulate. “Even though you are spread out, your unity and encouragement to stay united together should be imitated by others,” he said.
DC Mokokchung also pointed out the potential for cultural tourism through such events. He encouraged inviting tourists to witness the festival, as it promotes cultural tourism and opens doors for the village, district, and state to be showcased to the world.
He extended his best wishes to all the teams participating in the competition among the sectors of Ungma village, hoping they continue to preserve their traditions and culture. “May the best team win this competition and continue to uphold our cultural heritage,” he concluded.
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Dr. Prashanna Gogoi, Director of NEZCC, Dimapur, could not attend the event but conveyed a message through Oliver Temsu Pongen. Pongen highlighted the event as enlightening and impactful for both the village and the attendees. He encouraged the Longtrok Senden to develop strong cultural troupes to represent at the international level.
“I am really happy to witness what Soyim village is doing right now in preserving cultural heritage,” he said. He urged the village to concentrate on drama, handicrafts, handloom, and cultural troupes and suggested that these could be showcased in Delhi. He also encouraged villagers to develop skills in handicrafts, handlooms, folk songs, Folk dance, and drama.
The cultural event featured ten different clubs competing in the display of folk dance. United Soyim Club emerged as the winner, securing the first prize, while Salukum Rogo Ungma claimed the second prize. Guru A Mar Jamir, Rarentemjen Tatar and Kikumsungba were the judges for the cultural display competition.
