Gangtok, Jan 18 (IPR)
The second day of ‘Sikkim Red Panda Winter Carnival 2019’ at M.G. Marg Gangtok had Minister for Forest, Environment & Wildlife Management Department Shri T.W. Lepcha as the chief guest. He was accorded a warm welcome by Secretary Tourism & Civil Aviation, T.T. Bhutia and Special Secretary Tourism cum Chairperson Sikkim Red Panda Winter Carnival 2019 NamrataThapa, and officers of the Department.
The program began with Miss Emansi Gurung, a young talent from Gangtok, performing a classical dance to the tune of SaraswatiVandana.
B.K. Ghishing, Director, Information & Cultural Affairs Department, Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), who was present as a special guest, was felicitated with a Citation and a mini replica of the State Animal red Panda, which is the official mascot of the Sikkim Red Panda Winter Carnival. The gesture was a mark of respect and appreciation for the participation of artists from GTA in the three-day Carnival.
It may be reiterated that this year’s Carnival has had the participation of guest artists from GTA, Kalingpong and the neighbouring countries of Nepal and Bhutan. Along with their cultural performances on the stage, they have put up stalls along M.G. Marg showcasing their culture, tradition, handicraft and handlooms.
The inaugural program had a Newari dance by guest artists from Nepal, a Soreti dance by artists from GTA, a semi Maruni dance by artists of the Pelling Himalayan Academy West Sikkim, and a ‘Maney Song’ dance performance by a dance group based in Gangtok called Wings of Tibet.
The inaugural session concluded with vote of thanks proposed by Tseten Bhutia, Director Accounts, Tourism& Civil Aviation Department.
The cultural events at the main venue M.G. Marg continued throughout the day, starting with Yoga sessions in the morning and performances by renowned music bands till late evening. Photo exhibitions, DJ nights, traditional stalls and traditional cuisine formed the other highlights of the three-day Carnival.