07/08/2025
State-Level Folk Dance Competition Celebrates Sikkim’s Cultural Heritage
Gangtok, August 7 (IPR): A State Level Folk Dance Competition celebrating the ethnic traditions and artistic heritage of Sikkim was held at Manan Bhawan, today.
Organised by the Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration Committee, (TLRFCC) the event had the presence of the Minister of Social Welfare, Printing & Stationery, Women, Child, Senior Citizen, and Divyangjan Welfare Departments, Mr Samdup Lepcha as the chief guest. Also present were the Minister, Forest & Environment, Mines & Geology and Science & Technology Departments,Mr Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, MLA cm Advisor Urban Development and Food & Civil Supplies Departments, Mr Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, Councillors, Adhyaksha Mangan District, Chairman Social Welfare Commission Board, Mr Nim Tshering Lepcha, officers from different departments, Padmashree Awardee Mr Jorden Lepcha, dignataries, participants from Nepal and Bhutan along with Students, teachers from six districts, and members of the Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration Committee (TLRFCC)
Chief Guest Ren Samdup Lepcha in his address emphasised the importance of preserving cultural identity through such initiatives. He encouraged everyone to contribute meaningfully to the community they were born into, to support those in need, and to use resources responsibly. He also emphasised the importance of sharing cultural traditions and preserving them for future generations. Commending the cultural performances, he urged all to participate in the upcoming Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebration an opportunity to walk together in unity and strengthen the social fabric of our society.
The highlight of the event, the Folk Dance Competition, showcased diverse traditional performances from across the state, reflecting the deep-rooted legacy and storytelling embedded in Sikkim’s indigenous dances.
During the event, a compelling skit on Rongnyu-Rungnyit brought to life the sacred mythology of the Lepcha people.
Esteemed jury members, cultural experts, and community leaders participated in the event, with feedback shared by a senior jury member, appreciating the talent and effort of all participating groups.
Around 17 cultural dance groups from different schools, colleges, youth organisations and clubs across the state participated in the competition.
Acknowledging the contribution of senior artists they were felicitated by the Cultural community of TLRFC.
Thereafter, the event had the declaration of results and distribution of certificates and mementoes to the participants by the dignitaries. The event also featured a digital release of a special music video.
The winners of the cultural competition are as follows:
1st position : Sir Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School,
2nd position: Sanchaman Limboo Government College, Gyalshing
3rd position: Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government College
Earlier, Ms Ongmu Lepcha, delivered the welcome address setting the tone filled with cultural expression and community spirit.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Mr Phursang Lepcha, expressing gratitude to all guests, participants, volunteers, and the organising team.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK
