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. Shri N.B. Dahal, Hon’ble Minister of Roads and Bridges, Government of Sikkim, and Area MLA, handed over the certificate.

Last year, Shriya, then a Class 5 student of Dongeythang Primary School, represented Sikkim at the nonstop 24-hour national webinar “#ProjectSaakshar," organized by NIFAA. Among over 300 participants, she delivered a speech on "How to Educate Underprivileged Children." 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 15 August 2024 was marked by joy and enthusiasm. Shri N.B. Dahal, Hon’ble Minister for Roads and Bridges and Area MLA, was 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 the 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.