Saturday, Aug 26, 2023 08:15 [IST]
Last Update: Saturday, Aug 26, 2023 02:42 [IST]
RANGPO,: Chief Minister PS Golay, accompanied by his spouse Krishna Rai and a large gathering, extended a rousing welcome at Rangpo on Friday to the three Sikkimese talents who had excelled in the Nepal’s reality singing and dancing talent shows ‘Mero Voice Universe’ and ‘Mero Dance Universe’.
Preetam Rai from Regu, Chujachen constituency, won the ‘Mero Voice Universe’ during the grand finale held on August 20 at Kathmandu. Shishir Thatal from Rangpo bagged the second position.
Making it a sweep for Sikkim was dancer Mingma D. Lecpcha from Namchi who stood third in ‘Mero Dance Universe’.
The homecoming ceremony at Rangpo Tourist Facilitation Centre was organised by the State-level supporting club, under the chairmanship of Power minister MN Sherpa. The event was attended by cabinet ministers, dignitaries, members of different associations, invited guests from Intra-National Welfare and Support Foundation of America, etc.
Chief Minister PS Golay, in his address, expressed his delight and appreciation for the achievements of the three talented individuals of Sikkim. He commended their dedication and hard work, which have not only brought honour to Sikkim but also served as an inspiration to the youth of the State.
“All the three winners are the sons of Sikkim and they have made the State proud on the international platform. To come here today, and congratulate them is an honour for me. The youths of Sikkim are extremely talented, and the State government is always there to support them and push them forward, not just limited to Sikkim but also at the national and international levels. The victory of these winners is not the end, but just the beginning,” expressed the Chief Minister.
Golay announced that the State government will organise festivals oriented to art and culture with the aim of promoting the local artists and traditions of Sikkim. He reiterated the State government’s commitment towards promoting and nurturing artistic talents in Sikkim. He highlighted the various initiatives taken by the State government to provide better opportunities and facilities for artists in Sikkim, including scholarships and grants for aspiring talents.
“Sikkim eagerly anticipates more such remarkable achievements in the world of art and culture, and the State government remains committed to supporting and nurturing the artistic spirit of the state", the Chief Minister mentioned.
Agriculture minister Lok Nath Sharma who represented Sikkim at the grand finale of the popular singing reality show, stated that it is a proud moment for Sikkim as the three artistes have shined Sikkim and India in the international platform, in both singing and dance categories. The reality show had participants from all over the world, and it was an extremely tough competition, he said.
Minister MN Sherpa delivered the welcome address.
Artistes Speak
Preetam Rai said: “I have no formal training in music and I am only a normal human being. The Chief Minister has been extremely supportive since the beginning of my ‘Mero Voice’ journey, and I think, without his support, I wouldn’t have been on the stage in the first place. I am happy that I could bring the winning trophy home and make Sikkim proud. I am extremely thankful to my supporters who voted for me too”.
Thanking the State government, Shishir Thatal expressed that the Chief Minister and his spouse have supported him like his own parents. “I lost my parents at an early age and each time I met the Chief Minister and his wife during my ‘Mero Voice’ journey, he always urged me to do better, like my parents would have done. I am also thankful to the various organisations who have supported me and also people who voted for me,” he said.
Mingma D. Lepcha also thanked the State government, the Chief Minister and his wife for the overall support. “Without their support it would not be possible to win. Although I came third, I am not disappointed because I am already a winner. To participate in the international platform is already a great deal for me. The journey has given us exposure and soon, the three winners will be touring the world, as promised by Mero Voice and Mero Dance organisers. We will take Sikkim with us during the tour,” he said.
