Kohima, August 17: The Governor’s Award for Arts, Music and Literature 2026 was held at the Dr. Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on August 15, recognising individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions to the cultural landscape of Nagaland.
The award ceremony honoured Shri Aku Zeliang and Shri Bendang Walling in the field of Arts, while Divine Connection, Shri Imkonglemba and Shri Joey Woch were recognised for their contributions to Music.
The programme began with the National Song and National Anthem, followed by a brief outline of the Governor’s Award 2026 presented by Commissioner and Secretary, Art & Culture, Smti Bodeno S. Colo, NCS.
The achievements and contributions of the awardees were highlighted through displays of artworks, audio-visual presentations and live musical performances before the awards were formally presented by the Governor of Nagaland, Shri Nand Kishore Yadav.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor underscored the importance of recognising and encouraging individuals who contribute to the preservation, promotion and enrichment of Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage.
The Governor’s Award for Arts, Music and Literature was instituted in 2003 as an institutional platform to recognise sustained excellence and creative contributions in the fields of Arts, Music and Literature.
According to the Department of Art & Culture, the awards recognise not only individual achievements but also contributions towards preserving the State’s heritage, enriching its cultural landscape and inspiring future generations.
The ceremony concluded with the National Song and National Anthem, followed by a group photograph of the awardees with the Governor.
