The Legend of Tendong Hill

Tendong Hill is a legendary name in Sikkimese culture, steeped in history and spirituality. Rising 8,350 feet in the Himalayas, it is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Namchi. This sacred mountain holds a special place in the hearts of the Lepcha people, who share a powerful story of survival—the tale of the great flood, a legacy echoed in cultures worldwide.

Today, Tendong is celebrated during the Tenmdong Alho Rum Faat Festival, a beautiful occasion of gratitude for the mountain’s protection during that devastating deluge. I had been searching for the oldest published reference to this story when I discovered an account from Among the Himalayas by Major L.A. Waddell, published in 1900. This tale highlights the connection between the Sikkimese people and their natural surroundings.

Long ago, when only the Rong (or Lepchas) inhabited this land, a terrible flood struck. The waters rose swiftly, drowning everyone in the valleys and covering all the mountains except for two: the peak of Tendong and its northern neighbor, Mainom.

The few people who managed to escape to Tendong watched in sorrow as Mainom disappeared beneath the waves. This is why it is called ‘Mainom’ (or Ma-ptom), meaning ‘The Disappearing Sister.’ Even today, the echoes of those who drowned can still be heard from Tendong, which stood tall above the flood.

As the waters kept rising, they threatened to swallow Tendong as well. Desperate, the terrified survivors prayed earnestly to the mountain for help. In a miraculous moment, the mountain answered their pleas, lifting itself even higher and keeping them safe above the raging waters. That’s how Tendong earned its name, meaning ‘The Uplifted Horn.’

Eventually, the floodwaters receded, and the people rejoiced, their hearts filled with gratitude for Tendong’s protection. 

In bygone days, these words echoed as the high priest chanted in the local language while offering to the mountain spirits:

"Ki-ki so-so la-so-lal Lka-gyal-o! Dud-pam-bol!"

(Pray accept our offering! The spirits are victorious! The devils are defeated!)

Since that day, the Rong have honored and worshipped this mountain, seeing it as a symbol of hope, safety, and the strength of their ancestors. This story of resilience and faith continues to inspire the people of Sikkim, reminding them of their deep connection to nature and the enduring spirit of their heritage.

Deshoddhar Vidhya Peeth: The story of Chujachen SSS

FROM PRIME SCHOOL MAGAZINE 

2019

In 1954, the learned individuals of Chujachen Busty founded Deshoddhar Vidhya Peeth (DVP) with their limited resources. The school's name reflects the philosophy and goals of its founders, who focused on providing education, instilling patriotism, and promoting the principle of "simple living, high thinking." A four-member management committee: Shri Narendra Narsingh Sakyabans, Shri Padam Raj Shrestha, Shri. Chandra Lal Sharma and Shri Nar Bahadur Pradhan built and ran the school.

The school initially enrolled 60 students, each paying a small fee of ₹1. Mr. D.B. Gurung, who shared the founders' vision, became the first and only teacher, earning ₹60 monthly. The committee members contributed ₹5 monthly to cover the school’s expenses. Despite financial constraints, the founders were determined to make the school successful.

In 1956, the Government of Sikkim recognized the school and provided an aid of ₹60, raising the head teacher's salary to ₹100. Mr. Chandra Lal Sharma played a key role in the school's growth, and although the school faced some challenges, including the withdrawal of two teachers, it managed to thrive. DVP's first student, Mr. T.R. Sharma, rose to become the Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.

In 1972, DVP merged with Rongli Junior High School and became Government School Chujachen. In 1974, the management committee introduced classes IX and X without government approval, shouldering the expenses themselves. In 1976, the school was officially upgraded to a high school, and in 1982, it became a Higher Secondary School, fulfilling the vision of its founders.

1976

Today, DVP offers Arts, Science, and Commerce streams at the +2 level and continues to produce excellent results, contributing to the community’s educational progress.

Shital Pradhan wins first prize at Gangtokpex 2024 Philatelic Exhibition

 

Scarf Replaces Tins and Shoes: Sikkim Coronation Traditions, Gangtok 1965

 

This photograph from a 1965 National Geographic page captures the coronation of Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal in Gangtok. The image beautifully depicts the traditional offering of a white scarf, symbolizing blessings and benediction on this grand occasion.

During those times in the West, happy events were often marked by the unique custom of tying tins and shoes, symbolizing good fortune and protection for the couple or occasion being celebrated. The clattering cans were believed to scare away bad luck and protect the newlyweds or occasion, while shoes symbolized good luck and a blessing for their new life together.

Interestingly, the royal family's license plate proudly bears the name "Sikkim" but no numbers.

Medal winners of Knight Chess Academy at Inter School Chess Championship 2024

Suyog Shital Pradhan secured 9th position in under 11 Boys

Abelane Darnal secured 4th position in under 13 Boys

Yedhant Agrawal secured 1st position in under 9 Boys

Evan Moktan secured 8th position in under 9 Boys

Aarav Pradhan secured 8th position in under 9 Boys

Advet Dubey secured 4th position in under 9 Boys

Ishita Agarwal secured 2nd position in under 9 Girls

 

Palak Agarwal secured 3rd position in under 9 Girls

Aadya Lama secured 4th position in under 9 Girls

Suyog Shital Pradhan stoods 9th at Inter School Chess Championship, Gangtok

20.08.24: Suyog Shital Pradhan secured 9th place in the Under-11 category at the 2024 Inter School Chess Championship, organized by the Sikkim Chess Association and held at Sir TNSSS, Gangtok. He earned 6 points with 5 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses out of nine games. The three-day event saw participation from over 42 schools, with more than 300 competitors.

Congratulations to the Sikkim Chess Association for their successful championship organisation, and a special thanks to our coach, Rohit Gurung, for his unwavering guidance.

Palak Agarwal Shines at 2nd Sakatam International FIDE Rating Blitz Chess Tournament

 17.08.24: Excited to announce that Miss Palak Agarwal, a student of Mount Zion School, Kidzee, Singtam, and daughter of Ravi Agarwal (RK Studio) and Ritu Agarwal, secured 1st place in the Under-9 Girls category at the 2nd Sakatam International FIDE Rating Blitz Chess Tournament in Guwahati.

In the Under-18 category, Ayan, Abelane, and Anmol excelled against rated competitors, while Yedhant performed admirably, suffering only one loss. In the Under-12 category, every player demonstrated commendable skill against tough opponents.

Congratulations to coach Rohit Gurung and all the Sikkim participants for their impressive performances and valuable experience.

Dongeythang Primary School Celebrates Shriya Tamang's World Book of Records Achievement

 15.08.24: Dongeythang Government Primary School had the honour of presenting the World Book of Records, London certificate to Miss Shriya Tamang, a former student currently studying in Class 6 at Sonamati SSS. The certificate was handed over by Shri N.B. Dahal, Hon'ble Minister of Roads and Bridges, Government of Sikkim, and Area MLA.

Last year, Shriya, then a Class 5 student of Dongeythang Primary School, represented Sikkim at the non-stop 24-hour national webinar "#ProjectSaakshar," organized by NIFAA, where she delivered a speech on "How to Educate Underprivileged Children" among over 300 participants. This event was confirmed as a World Record, and Shriya was recognized for participating.

78th Independence Day Celebration at Sonamati SSS

 The 78th Independence Day celebration at Sonamati SSS's ground on 15th August 2024 was marked by joy and enthusiasm. The event was graced by Shri N.B. Dahal, Hon'ble Minister for Roads and Bridges and Area MLA, as the Chief Guest. Among the distinguished guests were Shri Suresh Tamang, President of Singtam Nagar Panchayats, Shri S.D. Dhakal, BDO of Khamdong BAC, former Ministers, Panchayats from various GPUs, police officials, representatives of BAC Khamdong, school heads, SKM party officials, and many others.

The highly anticipated Open Football final saw Sangha 32 Football Team emerge victorious against Nutmeg, winning a grand prize of ₹4 lakh, while the runners-up took home ₹2 lakh. The day also featured a school parade competition, vibrant cultural performances, a thrilling greasy bamboo pole climb, and a unique contest to count pumpkin seeds. The entire event was a beautiful display of community spirit, unity, and celebration of the nation's freedom.

Certificates were awarded to school toppers, recognizing their academic achievements. In a proud moment, Miss Shriya Tamang, a Class VI student, was honored with a prestigious World Book of Records, London certificate, marking a significant achievement at such a young age.

The day was a splendid celebration of freedom, community, and achievement.

Mt. Zion School Shines at School League 2024 Chess Competition

23.07.24: Congratulations to Ayan Rai, Anmol Rai, Abelane Darnal, Manasvi Acharya, and my son, Suyog Shital Pradhan, from Mount Zion School, Kidzee, Singtam, for securing 3rd place at the School League 2024 Chess Competition, organized by the Sikkim Chess Association at TNA, Gangtok. Thanks to our dedicated coach, Rohit Gurung, for his invaluable guidance and support.

With over 10 schools participating, the school team performed exceptionally well. They have now qualified for the National Chess Competition in Assam next month.