Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang gathered with the Newar community on Friday, September 25, 2026. They met for the state-level Indrajatra celebration hosted by the Sikkim Newar Guthi. Tamang praised the community for its work in administration, agriculture, trade, mining, and the arts. He specifically credited early pioneers like Laxmidas Pradhan and Chandrabir Pradhan for building the state’s foundations through copper mining and coin production.
The festival serves a deeper purpose. "Indrajatra is not merely a festival but a celebration of nature, agriculture, remembrance, community and harmony," Tamang said. He emphasized that the event promotes mutual respect across all cultures. The Chief Minister also highlighted modern successes, noting that Newar individuals have gained acclaim in mountaineering, sports, and music.
State support remains a priority. Tamang pointed to the Chief Minister’s Education Assistance Scheme, which aids local students pursuing professional and medical degrees. During the event, he handed over land parcha to the Sikkim Newar Guthi to allow for the construction of their bhawan. He also released the Smarika 2026 publication, a Ritual Book, and a Newar Indrajatra song.
Recognition was high. Suryavir Tuladhar, Govind Prasad Pradhan, and Ganesh Kumar Pradhan received the Newar Ratna Samman. Suchitna Tamang earned the Bhanji Bhrikuti Samman. The day closed with traditional performances, including the Dhimey Dance, Kumari Nritya, and Bajrayogini Nritya. Before leaving, Tamang promoted the upcoming Sikkim Travel and Tourism Fair 2026 by showing off its new logo.
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