GANGTOK, : The grand finale of ‘Gangtok’s Got Talent’, an initiative by the
District Administrative Centre in collaboration with Stars of Hope and under
the aegis of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Nasha Mukt Abhiyan campaigns,
concluded Tuesday evening at MG Marg here.
The
event was held in the esteemed presence of Governor Om Prakash Mathur, who
graced the occasion as chief guest, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay
as guest of honour.
The
talent competition formed a significant part of the ongoing celebration of
Sikkim’s 50 years of Statehood, providing a platform for individuals of all
ages to showcase their unique talents. With free registration and no age limit,
participants mesmerised the audience with a variety of performances including
tabla playing, dance, poetry, singing, guitar, beat boxing, video editing,
theatrical acts, and painting.
The
auditions, held online between March 1st and March 15th, saw over 100 entries.
Of these, 80 contestants advanced to the semi-finals, held on April 6th, and 19
finalists earned their place in the grand finale. The final round was judged by
noted personalities Remanti Rai, Albert Gurung, and Komal Gurung.
In
his welcome address, Gangtok DC Tushar Nikhare expressed his motivation for
launching the event. He recalled how in the past, artists from outside the State
would perform in Sikkim while locals simply applauded. “It was time,” he said,
“for our youth to take centre stage and be celebrated by their own.” He
credited the success of the programme to strong teamwork and visionary
leadership, particularly acknowledging the Chief Minister for transformative
initiatives such as the ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ scheme, which has
significantly boosted employment in the state.
He
also lauded the Governor as a source of constant inspiration for the youth and
expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister for his unwavering support.
Governor
Om Prakash Mathur, in his address, highlighted Sikkim’s natural and cultural
wealth, noting that platforms like ‘Gangtok’s Got Talent’ are vital in
channelling youthful energy in positive directions. He specifically praised the
Nukkad Natak (street theatre) performance and advocated for similar artistic
initiatives across Sikkim to foster awareness and resilience, particularly
against addiction.
“It
is essential,” the Governor added, “to encourage our children not just
academically but also in the fields of sports and the arts, as they contribute
immensely to both mental and physical well-being.” He lauded all the
participants, describing them as “inspirations and role models for society,”
and extended his congratulations to District Collector Tushar Nikhare and the district
administration team for organising the successful event.
The
programme featured the release of a music video by the Chief Minister, further
enriching the evening's cultural vibrancy. Notably, Arpana Acharya, a top 8
finalist in The Voice of Nepal Season 6, shared a video message urging fans to
support her journey in the competition.
The
top four winners were Hema Malley, Ananta Theatre, Sonam Waiba, and Nehara Limboo,
who received cash prizes.
