Mt. Zion Kidzee Singtam School patriciates at Br. Eric Rudum Quiz Competition, Darjeeling

The quiz team from Mt. Zion Kidzee Singtam School embarked on an enriching journey to Darjeeling, where they participated in the Br. Eric Rudum Quiz Competition held at St. Joseph's School, North Point.

The team of Deepshika Gadaily, Tanishka Pradhan and Tsheoshang Chemi Tamang represented the school escorted by Sisir Chettri, Chairman and Anisha Mukhia, Principal of the school.

This prestigious event was organized by St. Joseph's North Point School had a participation of 42 schools.

32nd Nepali Bhasa Diwas observed

21.08.23: The 32nd Nepali Bhasa Diwas was celebrated by the Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti with enthusiasm. The event took place at the Sports Hall of Archigos Preparatory Academy in Shantinagar. Shri LN Pradhan, President of Sikkim Government Retired Employees Welfare Association, Singtam Branch, was honored during the event. The day featured poetry recitations, speeches, and cultural dances.

Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, extended khadas to the Chief Guests and other attendees. He delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the significance of the day. Pradhan Neeraj Mohan, a distinguished Nepali literary figure from Singtam and Sikkim, presided over the event.

Prominent guests from Singtam and beyond, such as Surya Prasad Kharel, Mahesh Dahal 'Sangam,' Nandu Dutraj 'Nisha,' Kripesh Singh, Anand Chettrii, Lokesh Mukhia, Latika Poudhyal, and Shital Pradhan, recited beautiful Nepali poems. Other attendees included Sharmila Sunar, Headmistress of Sakhukhani Primary School, as well as singers Amisha Lohar and Norzang Tamang.

Nishant Dulal discussed the role of Sikkim in recognizing the Nepali Language. Sundar Rai and Santosh Bardewa, well-known social workers, highlighted the importance of language recognition.

Mohan Pradhan 'Neeraj' praised Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti for promoting the Nepali language and commended the diverse performances of the day. LN Pradhan, the chief guest, expressed gratitude to SGSS for the felicitation and recounted Singtam's support for the movement in the past.

INDRA JATRA 2023 TO BE CELEBRATED IN EIGHT DAYS LONG EVENT IN GANGTOK, SIKKIM

Gangtok, 16/08/2023: “Indrajatra” the biggest festival for the “Newar” community is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the State every year. This year, the celebration would be eight days long Kumari Puja with three days of various activities and programmes. The Celebrations are to be organised with great pomp and glory in the State capital, Gangtok from 22nd to 29th September 2023. 

A high-level coordination meeting was held at Newar Bhawan, Sichey, Gangtok on 16th August 2023 to finalise the programmes and events. The meeting was chaired by Shri Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, President of Sikkim Newar Guthi, He addressed the meeting house and stressed the need to organise the Indra Jatra event in a grand manner to showcase our rich cultural heritage and traditions. It was finalised that the Indrajatra 2023 puja and rituals would be carried out for entire 8 days with 7 days of puja including Lingo and Dagini puja at Newar Bhawan leading to the final day of Indra and Kumari puja on 29th September 2023 at Bhanu Park, Gangtok.

On the 6th and 7th day i.e. on 27th and 28th September 2023, exhibition stalls and formal programmes are to be organised at M.G. Marg, Gangtok. NewaKhaja Ghar with Aiela &Sagun, 84 Byanjan/Food Display, Photo/ Art Gallery, Traditional Music Instruments & Costumes, Aachar, Handicraft and handloom exhibitions, exhibitions by our young entrepreneurs, etc. are to be organised at MG Marg, Gangtok. On 28th September 2023, finals of various competitions such as BhajuMaejuSikkim as well as Traditional Newar Dance and Music Competitions were to be held at Manan Bhawan, Gangtok. Appreciations and felicitation to the newar achievers of Sikkim will also be one of the leading programmes of the day. 

The final day event i.e. on 29th September 2023 would begin at Bhanu Park with the worship of various deities including Lord Indra followed by the chariot (rath) procession of Kumari, the living Goddess accompanied by drum beats, masked dance performances (Lakhey) and various dance performances. Various Cultural programs will also be organized by the presentation of the Lakhey dance - a popular Newar dance along with the play of Dhimey and Daa which are traditional Newar musical instruments, etc. This would also be an attraction to tourists from India and abroad visiting the State. 

The procession will end at Manan Bhawan which is scheduled to host cultural programmes, award distributions, felicitations, the launch of the Annual Newar magazine “Smarika” and “PAU” and finally culminating the celebrations with a Grand Musical Gala event. Large numbers of Newars from all over the State and outside are expected to gather for this auspicious event at the State Capital. All the events and programmes would be fully eco-friendly without using plastics and other non-biodegradable substances. 

During the course of the meeting, the IndraJatra Committee was also formed with Shri Mahendra Pradhan, (Treasurer) as Chairman, Shri Mahendra Pradhan, (Vice President) and Smt. Hom Kumari Pradhan as Vice-Chairpersons, Dr. Sushen Pradhan as General Secretary and Smt. Rohini Pradhan as Treasurer and Shri Swagat Pradhan as Assistant Treasurer. Various other sub-committees were also formed for various assignments and responsibilities. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by the Vice-president, Sikkim Newar Guthi.

SGSS Extends Heartfelt Congratulations to Pragati Gurung for Representing India at Asia Youth International Model United Nations

09.08.23: Members of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti gathered to extend warm congratulations to Miss Pragati Gurung, a resident of Lower Chisopani, Singtam. Miss Gurung, a third-year student pursuing Geography (Honours) at NB Bhandari Degree College, Tadong, Gangtok, has been selected to represent India at the esteemed Asia Youth International Model United Nations - 12th Edition Conference. The conference is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from August 12th to 15th, 2023.

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The Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti is immensely proud of Miss Pragati Gurung's accomplishments and wishes her the very best as she embarks on this remarkable journey to Kuala Lumpur. Miss Gurung's participation is particularly noteworthy as she will be representing India under the Council of the World Health Organization (WHO), with her assigned country being Ghana. The focal point of her presentation will be "Resilience and Sustainability in Establishing the Health System." 

Krishna Chettri, President SGSS along with Shital Pradhan and Nishant Dulal represented Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti.

Khamdong BAC's Education Felicitation: 20 Honoured Individuals

06.08.23: The Education Department of Khamdong BAC organized a heartfelt felicitation program at Eco Resort, Majhitar, to honour twenty retired and transferred officials, comprising both teaching and non-teaching staff. 

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Sawan R Dhakal, BDO of Khamdong BAC, who attended as the chief guest. Additionally, Shri Jagat Thapa and Shri OP Niroula, AD and AEO of the Education Department, Khamdong BAC, were the esteemed Guests of Honour for the day.

The ceremony was a momentous occasion to celebrate the invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication of these honoured individuals to the education sector. Shri Mahesh Dahal 'Sangam' played a significant role in writing and preparing the felicitation for these twenty remarkable individuals.

The program was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Heads of Primary Schools, Junior High Schools, Secondary Schools, and Senior Secondary Schools, along with other officials and staff under Khamdong BAC.

Each of these honoured individuals has left an indelible mark on the education sector through their dedication, hard work, and commitment to shaping the future of countless students.

The felicitation program was a memorable tribute to these esteemed individuals who have selflessly served the education sector, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. The event concluded with a sense of gratitude and pride for their extraordinary contributions.

The honoured individuals included - Shri RP Poudhyal, Smt. Hansa Rai, Sushri Bunu Shanker, Sushri Anushila Chettri, Shri Pradeep Dahal, Shri CB Tamang, Ms. Janet Lepcha, ShrI CB Chettri, Shri Mitralal Dhakal, Shri Chogyal Bhutia, Shri Ganga Ram Chapagain, Shri Kewal Prasad Dhakal, Shri Pancha Bdr. Subba, Shri Dorjee Shrepa, Shri TT Gensapa, Smt. Pema Doma Bhutia, Shri Chozang Bhutia, Shri Bal Kumar Lamichaney, Smt. Karma Doma Bhutia and Smt. Ongmu Tsh. Bhutia.

Newa Bhay Bowneykuthi organises Blood Donation Camp

01.08.23: Members of Newa Bhay Bowneykuthi, Singtam Sakha, led by President Bhaju Gopal Pradhan, organized a successful one-day blood donation camp at the Blood Bank, District Hospital Singtam. The camp witnessed the active participation of several dedicated members, contributing to the noble cause of saving lives through blood donation. 

The following members selflessly donated their blood: Following members took part in the blood donation: Bhaju Abhishek Pradhan – (Blood Group: O+), Bhaju Gopal Pradhan (Blood Group: B+), Bhaju Hiralall Pradhan (Blood Group: O+), Bhaju Lalit Pradhan (Blood Group: AB+), Bhaju Prakash Pradhan (Blood Group: AB+), Bhaju Pritam Pradhan (Blood Group: AB+). 

Their exemplary act of compassion and generosity will undoubtedly benefit those in need of blood and contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Newa Bhay Bowneykuthi, Singtam Sakha, extends heartfelt gratitude to all donors and encourages everyone to continue supporting such initiatives that make a significant difference in the lives of others.

1st Convocation & Annual General Meeting of Sikkim Newar Guthi

 Gangtok, 30/07/2023: Sikkim Newar Guthi (SNG), a non-profit Organization registered vide No. 689/LR/94 held its Annual General Meeting cum 1^st Convocation of National Institute of Newar language and Culture at the Auditorium, Namthang Senior Secondary School amidst large gathering of Newars from all over the State including guests and dignitaries. The meeting was chaired by Shri. Nirmal Kr. Pradhan, President, Sikkim Newar Guthi and the other Central Executive members.

The main agenda of the meeting was presentation of the Reports of Activities and Statement of Accounts for the period 2022-2023, Distribution of Certificates to students, felicitation to teachers & different sakha and Indrajatra Celebration 2023.

The meeting was started with lighting of lamp (Sukunda) by the Chairman of the AGM followed by performing Gyanmala Bhajans by members of Soreng and Daramdin sakhas. The main program was started with the welcome address by Bhaju (Mr) .C.K Pradhan, Member, Namthang Sakha Guthi. The activities report of 2022-2023 year was presented by Dr. Sushen Pradhan, General Secretary, Sikkim Newar Guthi (SNG). Likewise, the Audited Statement of Accounts of the SNG as well as the activities on construction of Newar Bhawan Sichey, Gangtok and Kabrey Project Heritage of Newar Language, Culture and Research Centre was presented by the Bhaju (Mr) Mahendra Pradhan. Treasurer, SNG. Mayju (Mrs.) Kalpana Pradhan, Board Of Director, National Institute of Newar language and Culture (NINLC) delivered a lecture on Newar Five Traditional Utensils which must be kept by the entire Newar house in Sikkim. Bhaju (Mr.) D.K. Pradhan, Chairman, Board of Directors National Institute of Newar Language & Culture, Gangtok gave a brief report on establishment of NINLC and one year diploma course of the institute and future action plan.

In the 1^st convocation programme of NINLC, SNG felicitated all the newar language, music and dance teachers of the institute. The teachers are Mayju Prajala Pradhan, Bhaju Chabilal Pradhan, Mayju Nirmala Pradhan and Mayju Rabina Pradhan. All the sixteen (16) students were distributed Mark Sheet and Pass Certificate of one year Diploma Course of Newar Language & Culture. Further, first, second and third students were also awarded with trophies and certificates. The 1^stposition was achieved by Bhaju Rupok Pradhan, Daramdin, West Sikkim, followed by 2^nd position Mayju Karuna Pradhan, Dentam, West Sikkim and 3^rd position Mayju Priya Pradhan. Soreng, west Sikkim.

Sikkim Newar Guthi awarded to Bhaju K K Pradhan, President, Daramdin-Sombaria, Sakha & Mayju (Mrs) Smiriti Pradhan, Culture Secretary, Daramdin-Sombaria Sakha as Best Couple award for together conserving newar language, traditions and culture since two decades in Daramdin Sakha well as in Sikkim. Best Promising Sakha was awarded to Sadam Suntalay Sakha for imparting musical instruments (Dhimey) training to 62 numbers of students. The award was received by Bhaju Dewan Pradhan, President and Bhaju Sarad Pradhan, Member, Sadam Suntalay Sakha.

Further, Development Sakha was awarded with first women sakha having all womens are executive body of the Sakha Guthi. The Development Sakha was awarded for the women empowerment and giving example to all the women of Sikkim to preserve newar culture and traditions in Sikkim. The award was received by Mayju Bimla Pradhan, President, Development Area Sakha and all the executive body of the Sakha.

At last the Best Sakha of 2022-23 was awarded to Soreng Sakha for carryout numerous activities for preservation of Newar Culture and Rituals in Soreng Sakha. The activities were Second Samuhik Ketha Puja of 32 numbers of boys, First Newar Maha Puran, Maha Puja, training on rituals and musical instruments etc. The award was received by Bhaju K.B. Pradhan, President, Soreng Sakha and Bhaju Durga Mani Pradhan, General Secretary, Soreng Sakha.

Bhaju Mahendra Pradhan, Vice President, SNG proposed and passed resolution of “Newar Madhumaha Shradhanjali Programme”. The main aim of the programme is to provide financial support to the deceased family and to make Newars of Sikkim united. In this programme all the members of Sikkim Newar Guthi will offer Rs. 20/- in the name of deceased person instead of offering khadha. The responsibility of this programme was handed over to Bhaju Basant Pradhan, State Chief Coordinator. Further, eight daylong celebration of Indra Jatra 2022 the video documentary was launched from the hands of Bhaju Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, President Sikkim Newar Guthi.

Bhaju Mahendra Pradhan, Treasurer, Sikkim Newar Guthi gave the detailed accounts of eight days of Indrajatra Celebrations 2022. Further he proposed and passed the resolution to celebrate Indra Jatra festival 2023 in Gangtok, Gangtok District.

Executive members and members of different Sakhas and Zones put forward their suggestions and problems and highlighted the focus areas to be taken. Shri Nirmal Kr. Pradhan, President, SNG presented the activities of Sikkim Newar Guthi and also highlighted the areas of concern for the new executive to be taken up during their tenure.

The programme was ended with a vote of thanks by Mayju Hom Kumari Pradhan, Vice President (Women) SNG. The whole programme was smoothly conducted by Mayju Reshu Pradhan, Board of Director, NINLC, Sikkim Newar Guthi.