NAMCHI, : The second
edition of Sikkim Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan commenced on Monday at Town Hall,
Namchi with over 900 artists from Sikkim participating in the two-day event.
Culture minister G.T. Dhungel was the chief guest
on the opening day, while Deputy Speaker Raj Kumari Thapa, Namthang-Rateypani MLA
Sanjeet Kharel, Zoom-Salghari MLA Madan Cintury, Namchi-Singithang MLA Satish
Chandra Rai, and former Namchi-Singithang MLA Krishna Kumari Rai were the guests
of honour.
The first day featured performances by playback
singer Sairaj Khati and Nritya-Shreya from Nepal, along with Kalimpong singers
Revika, Lhamu, Sukmit Gurung and Babita Mahanander.
Additionally, representatives from eight different
art forms shared their experiences. DivyaJyoti Baraili (music) emphasized the
need for infrastructure improvements, music education in schools and
international music workshops. Diwakar Lamichaney (painting) highlighted fine
arts as a career option in Sikkim.
Avishek Chettri (filmmaking) spoke on how the film
industry contributes to economic development by supporting various art forms.
Pema Choden Bhutia (fashion) discussed beauty pageants, industry challenges and
solutions. Suman Rai (theatre) proposed introducing theatre in schools, setting
up blackbox theatres in every district and reducing high taxes on theatre
activities.
Anjuli Rai (dance) addressed scholarships and
health insurance for artists. Biren Pradhan (stand-up comedy) encouraged
creating positive content and Luv Chettri (content creation) emphasized family
support, opportunities in digital content creation, and the potential of
creator-preneurship.
A panel discussion was also held with
writer-director Prashant Rasaily, Reeyaj Sangitalaya proprietor Manoj Rai, and
OSD (Cultural department) Bhawani Ghimirey. Moderated by Sanjay Rai from Voice
NGO, the discussion covered topics like streamlining the artist community, the
impact of concerts and festivals on tourism and the role of the Culture department.
Filmmaker Ugen Chopel Bhutia also shared insights on various aspects of
filmmaking.
In his address, minister G.T. Dhungel highlighted
the importance of work culture, kindness, and continuous learning in the arts.
He stressed that art should remain contemporary and relevant to society.
The second day of the event will have Chief
Minister P.S. Golay as the chief guest. The felicitation and award ceremony for
artists will be the highlight of the final day, followed by a performance by
TakmeBudo.
The Sammelan is organised by Voice NGO and supported
by the SKM cultural wing.
