Sikkim Artists Honored with National Yuva Puraskar

Gangtok: Sikkim residents Dilu Tamang and Tila Rupa Sapkota claimed the 2024 Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat handed over the awards in New Delhi on October 19, 2026. These honors recognize excellence in performing arts for individuals under 40.

Tamang earned her award for work in Himalayan folk dance. She focuses on research, choreography, and preserving ethnic traditions like Tamang Selo, Maruni, and Chutkay. She even took these indigenous forms to Osaka, Japan, during the Ullas festival. Hard work pays off.

Sapkota, an actor based in Gangtok, cut her teeth at the National School of Drama Sikkim Training Centre. She spent over 10 years with the NSD Sikkim Repertory Company and now coaches young talent throughout the region. The Sangeet Natak Akademi launched this award program back in 2006 to boost India’s traditional arts.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay offered his congratulations. He highlighted the impact of the duo’s success on the state. "This national recognition is a moment of immense pride for Sikkim, celebrating the extraordinary talent of our daughters who continue to bring honour to our State through their dedication to art and culture," he stated.