Yupangnenla Longkumer
Morung Express Feature
Dimapur | October 28
With western influence at its peak in Nagaland it is not so easy for cultural artistes to get public attention. However, 55-year-old Bendangsangla Ozükum against all odds have been striving to keep the age-old traditional songs and dances alive, which were passed down from one generation to another. In 2009 Bendangsangla established the Asen Cultural Society (Our Cultural Society) on August 13 and simultaneously she was also awarded the title ‘Guru’ by the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC).
Since then she has been mentoring a group of youngsters, who are all below the age of 25 years. It was said that no audition or test was conducted to choose her students but each pupil was handpicked by her depending on an individual’s skill. Her plan is to involve youngsters in her team so that it will in return encourage other youngsters too.
Most of her students are residents of Chumukedima belonging to Mopungchuket Village. Also, under the NEZCC’s Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme Bendangsangla has been teaching her students for two hours every Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
In Nagaland they are yet to steal the limelight but outside the state they are said to be the most wanted cultural troupe. They are not only popular in the east zone but have stolen the hearts of the islanders during the “Maati Ke Rang” celebrations – (Octave and Silver Jubilee Celebration of Zonal Cultural Centers) in Andaman which was held from September 23 to 27, 2012.
Bendangsangla is also known for composing folk songs and creating new arrangements in folk dances. They use traditional drum and kongki (a musical instrument like violin) to create melodious tunes in rhythm to their dance steps. Also, alongwith her pupils, she redesigned the ethnic wear of Ao Nagas making it more dance friendly.
Not only the songs and dances but they have also showcased their customized ethnic wear in various fashion shows. Though the troupe modifies their costumes to their advantage, they also make sure that the original touch does not get overshadowed.
The secret behind her immense creativity and talent is that her parents - Purnungsang Ozükum and Sakulemla Aier are among the culturally-rooted people in Mopungchuket village. In addition her mother is also known for leading a group of folk singers known as Sakulemla and Group. Their songs are aired time to time in All India Radio.
Bendangsangla also dreams to have her own cultural school in future so that she can do more to preserve and promote Ao Naga culture and traditions. She said all her achievement so far is because of her ever caring and supportive husband Imrongchiba Longkumer and daughter Anungla Longkumer. “…without them I wouldn’t have come this far.” Also, she said she is very grateful to NEZCC for its support and giving her the platform to pursue her interest.
Mention may be made that the Asen Cultural Society troupe will be performing at a cultural fest at Kolkata, which will be held from November 19 to 21.
