Salukum Rogo Ungma, champion of the first folk fusion competition held on the evening of April 29 at Yimtsüngda Arok Sabang (Amphitheatre), Ungma village.
Morung Express News
Ungma | April 30
In a celebration of tradition and creativity, the First Folk Fusion Competition was held on April 29 evening at Yimtsüngda Arok Sabang (Amphitheatre), Ungma village. The event, organised by Tongpu Pur, Aolijen Ungma, in collaboration with the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) Mokokchung, was held under the theme “Sobaliba Ratep.”
The competition brought together eight clubs from Ungma village, with Salukum Rogo Ungma emerging as the champion and Tongpu Pur securing the runner-up position. Other participating clubs included Young Naga Club, Season Star, Longterok Senden, Evergreen Club, United Soyim Club, and Mayang Rogo.
Established in 2010, Tongpu Pur is a club that envisions reviving the community’s cultural legacy by harmonizing tradition with modernity. Speaking at the event, Nungsangmanen Jamir, President of Tongpu Pur, said the concept of the Folk Fusion Competition emerged from a pressing realization.
“In a world dominated by Western influences, trying to catch up may be a losing game. We don’t need to chase the West,” Jamir said. “Our strength lies in owning what is uniquely ours—and that is more than enough to make an impact.”
He emphasised that culture, to survive, must evolve. “The fusion of tradition and innovation is not just an artistic experiment, but a movement to amplify Naga identity beyond geographical and cultural boundaries,” he stated. Jamir expressed confidence that the platform, in collaboration with TaFMA, will continue to grow and provide meaningful exposure to young Naga artists.
Guest of Honour, Tsuknungtemsu Lemtur, acknowledged the efforts of Tongpu Pur and the organizing committee for creating a platform that unites people through culture. He noted that the event extended beyond the Ao community by including other ethnic groups, which he described as a commendable and inclusive step.
Reflecting on the past, Lemtur remarked, “We Ao Nagas were once at the forefront—in culture, education, politics, leadership, and economy. But like every great kingdom that rose and fell, we too have become complacent.”
Calling for a revival of cultural consciousness, he said, “When we cut off from our identity, our language, and our heritage, we also cut off our growth potential. Let us reunite in unison and evoke our former glory. Let us pioneer again—not just for ourselves but for Nagaland.”
He emphasised the importance of equal opportunity and development for youth across all regions of the state, and encouraged the younger generation to carry forward the legacy left by their ancestors.
The evening also featured special cultural performances by the Sangtam Students’ Union Mokokchung (The Heart of the Sangtam Hills) and the Gorkha Students’ Union Mokokchung (Cultural Dance).
Judging the competition were a panel of seasoned professionals: Imna Yaden, singer-songwriter and composer from Dimapur; Asenla Longchar, Music Coordinator of ABAM; and Temsuyanger Jamir, noted composer and choir conductor.
