Nagaland: Kohima Ao Telongjem Celebrates Tsungremmong Festival 2025 at Kisama

Kohima: The Kohima Ao Telongjem (KAT) celebrated the pre-harvest festival Tsungremong with grandeur and traditional spirit at the Kisama Amphitheatre on Friday. The celebration brought together members of the Ao community for a day filled with cultural performances, reflection, and unity.

Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. S.C. Jamir, former Governor and Chief Minister of Nagaland, graced the event as Chief Guest. In his speech, Dr. Jamir praised the unity of the Ao people gathered but expressed concern over the growing issues in Naga society, including division, jealousy, and corruption. He called for collective responsibility in finding a solution to the long-standing Naga political issue, urging the community not to remain silent.

“Nagaland is a land chosen by the Almighty,” he said, “but sadly, it is in a state of disorder. We must not let unity be forgotten.”

Delivering the festival keynote, Minister for RD & SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, reflected on the origin and meaning of Tsungremong. He recalled how the forefathers celebrated the festival as a time of gratitude before the harvest and encouraged the Ao people living in Kohima to stay rooted in their culture and traditions.

President of Ao Senden, Marsanen Imsong, and Dobashi Mokokchung, Lanutemshi Longkumer, also addressed the gathering. Longkumer explained the historical and cultural significance of Tsungremong and its relevance to the present day.

The welcome address was delivered by T. Chubayanger, President of Kohima Ao Telongjem, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Lepzung Pongen, Convenor of KAT.

The day’s events featured a rich display of Ao cultural heritage, including folk dances, songs, and traditional games performed by various Ao unions under KAT. A special highlight was a Tug of War match between Ao legislators and senior officers versus the KAT Sanen Luden team, followed by a powerful theatrical performance by Dreams Unlimited.

The programme was compered by Narola Chuba, Vice Principal of Baptist College, Kohima, and Bendangsashi Walling, Associate Pastor of KABA.

The celebration stood as a proud reminder of the Ao people’s deep-rooted identity, while also echoing a strong message of unity and social responsibility.