Sangyusang S Pongener from Nagaland has been conferred with the Padma Shri Award 2026 in the field of Arts for his contribution to Ao Naga folk arts. The award was announced as part of the Padma Awards list for 2026.

Pongener has been recognised for his long-standing work in the preservation and promotion of Ao Naga indigenous folk traditions, including folk music and composition. He is among the 133 Padma Shri awardees selected from across the country this year.

Born in 1945, Sangyusang S Pongener is an eminent Ao folk artist and composer from Ungma village in Mokokchung district. At 81, he continues to be associated with efforts to document, preserve and pass on traditional Naga folk art forms to future generations