Tributes pour in for Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Temsula Ao: President, PM, Governor, CM, and more condole

Dimapur, Oct. 10 (EMN): Tributes have poured in from various quarters, including President of India Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nagaland Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Temsula Ao who passed away at Eden Medical Centre in Dimapur on Sunday at 80.

Ao was a renowned poet, scholar, novelist, ethnographer and served as the chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW).

“In the demise of Dr. Temsula Ao, we have lost a prolific author and ethnographer who also made valuable contribution to women empowerment. Honoured with Padma Shri, she played key role in promoting the rich cultural heritage of North East. Condolences to her family and friends,” tweeted Murmu.

Prime Minister

Modi expressed grief on the passing away of Dr. Temsula Ao.

“Saddened by the passing away of Dr. Temsüla Ao, who played a pivotal role in popularising the wonderful Naga culture through her literary works. Her efforts in the fields of education and culture were noteworthy. Condolences to her family and friends. May her soul rest in peace,” he tweeted.

Nagaland Governor

Prof. Mukhi expressed sadness over the demise of Ao, who served as chairperson of NSCW, director of North East Zone Cultural Centre and professor of English at North East Hill University (NEHU).

Mukhi stated that her literary works brought several laurels to the state and “made our people proud”. She was conferred with many awards in the field of literature including Sahitya Akademi Award and Padma Shri.

“She will go down in history for her contributions to the field of literature and a true humanist,” he conveyed.

In her demise, he said, the country has lost a noted litterateur and a great thinker. “I on behalf of the people of Nagaland and on my own behalf, convey our heartfelt condolences. I also pray to God to give strength to the family to bear this tragic loss and grant them peace and solace at this hour of pain,” he added.

Nagaland Chief Minister

Rio expressed grief over the demise of Pradma Shri Awardee, who contributed much to the Naga society through her literary works besides serving the people in various capacities.

‘Although she was a recipient of various laurels, she was humble about her achievements. I found her to be a strong and hardworking and humble woman, who was ever ready to serve the people with no reservations in various capacities. As such, she was highly respected by all and her accomplishments in life have inspired many women,’ the condolence message read.

He said the Naga society has lost a mentor and a guardian in her demise and the void created by her absence would be difficult to fill.

“She will be truly missed but let us treasure and celebrate her life and it is my humble prayer that her legacy will be carried on,” it read.

The chief minister also conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family members, and prayed that Almighty God gives them strength and comfort to bear the irreparable loss.

NSCW

Former Chairperson of NSCW, Khrienuo Tachu (Sep. 2019 – Sep. 2022), paid respect to Dr. Temsula Ao on behalf of all former chairpersons, members, current secretary and staff of the commission.

“Prof. Temsula has been a mentor, guide, and strongest supporter of the NSCW till her last breath. She cared deeply for the welfare and empowerment of the Naga women and worked selflessly in her own capacity as the Chairperson for two tenures, covering 2012-2019,” read the condolence message.

Tachu said that Ao brought many changes, both at the grassroots and at the level of higher policymaking, during her time as the chairperson.

‘Her biggest footprint, amongst many, was a massive project conducted, titled, Baseline Survey on Social, Economic and Political Empowerment of Women in Nagaland,’ she said.

 “The NSCW and Naga women in general are reaping the benefits of her hard work and dedication today. The NSCW and Naga women have lost a guide, a torchbearer, and an exceptional mentor. The NSCW will carry forward her legacy and work to make our Naga society a safe and better place for women and girl child,” she added.

Naga Mothers’ Association

The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), in its condolence message, said Dr. Ao was a woman of strength and wisdom, and she has left behind a “rich legacy as a poet, writer and also as a woman of grace and simplicity”.

Naga women have lost a legend, NMA stated, adding that she has left behind her works, and will continue to be an inspiration for all.

“We pray for peace, comfort and strength for the family at this difficult time. And may the departed soul rest in eternal peace,” it said.