71st Maghey Sankranti Mela 2026 Concludes on a Grand Note
Namchi, 22 January (IPR): The nine-day-long 71st edition of the Maghey Sankranti Mela 2026, which commenced on 14 January 2026, concluded today, marking the successful culmination of one of the State’s most significant cultural festivals.
The event witnessed a wide range of activities that beautifully showcased Sikkim’s rich traditional and cultural heritage while seamlessly blending elements of modernity, thereby appealing to people across all age groups.
The concluding day was graced by MLA & Advisor Mr Sanjeet Kharel as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Guests of Honour including Minister Mr Bhim Hang Limboo, OSD to the Chief Minister Ms Pooja Lamichaney, Chairperson Mr Basant Yonzon, Chairperson Ms Kabita Sapkota, Former Minister Mr G M Gurung, President SFA Mr Menla Ethenpa, Mr Hissay Bhutia, Mr Ajay Agarwal and Mr Sushil Minda. They were joined by Minister Mr Bhoj Raj Rai, MLA & Chief Patron Mr Madan Cintury, MLA & Advisor Mr N B Pradhan, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Jacob Khaling Rai, and Press Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Yougan Tamang, among other dignitaries.
Earlier, addressing the gathering, MLA & Chief Patron Mr Madan Cintury expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang for his continued support and guidance in the successful organisation of the festival. He reiterated the Chief Minister’s vision of elevating the Maghey Sankranti Mela to national and international platforms. Highlighting key initiatives such as Bangey Bazaar, he stated that such events have gained recognition beyond the State for their unique approach in showcasing and preserving Sikkim’s cultural heritage.
Emphasising the role of youth, the MLA noted that the Maghey Sankranti Mela has consistently provided a platform for young talents to showcase their abilities, a goal that has been successfully achieved during the present edition as well. He further acknowledged the collective efforts of officials from various line departments and the dedicated volunteers, whose hard work significantly contributed to the success of the festival.
Inviting constructive feedback from the public, the MLA stated that suggestions and reviews would serve as valuable learning tools to address shortcomings and ensure an even more grand and successful celebration in the coming years.
The day also witnessed the final match of the 11th All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup Football Tournament, featuring an electrifying encounter between Nongkseh SC (Shillong) and BSF (Jalandhar). Displaying exemplary competitiveness and sportsmanship, Nongkseh SC (Shillong) emerged victorious with a 1–0 scoreline to lift the Champion’s Trophy.
For his exceptional performance throughout the tournament, Mr Kynsaibor Lhuid of Nongkseh SC (Shillong) was adjudged Man of the Tournament, while Mr Sonu Lal of BSF (Jalandhar) received the Man of the Match award for the final.
During the felicitation ceremony, MLA & Chief Patron Mr Madan Cintury, President (NJNP) Mr Pavitra Manav, and Mr Bhakta Bahadur Chettri were honoured by the organising committee. The committee was represented by its President Mr Khagen Rai, Vice President Mr Dawa Bhutia, and General Secretary Mr Ruben Subba.
The Chief Guest and Guests of Honour were presented with mementoes by the organising committee, while vibrant traditional cultural dance performances added colour and festive spirit to the occasion. A brief report on the 11th All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup Football Tournament 2026 was presented by Mr Ruben Subba, General Secretary of the Jorethang Football Association.
Subsequently, the flags of the Maghey Sankranti Mela and the Jorethang Football Association were ceremonially lowered by the Chief Guest, who formally declared the conclusion of Maghey Sankranti Mela 2026.
The tournament was organised by the Jorethang Football Association in collaboration with the Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, the Sikkim Football Association, and the Maghey Sankranti Mela 2026 Organising Committee. All matches were conducted strictly in accordance with the rules and guidelines laid down by the All India Football Federation.
Also present on the occasion were President (NJNP) Mr Pavitra Manav, Vice President (NJNP) Ms Manjari Rai, Advisors Ms Bina Rai, Ms Pempoki Bhutia and Mr A K Ghatani, Chairpersons Mr Shekhar Sewa and Ms Anuradha Gurung, OSDs Mr Raju Roshan Pradhan, Mr D P Sharma and Mr Khagendra Rai, Director (SIRD&PR) Mr Bishal Mukhia, SP Soreng Mr Nahkul Pradhan, ADC Mr D P Dahal, SDMs Mr Yogen Syangden and Mr Wangyal Sherpa, SDPO (Mangalbaria) Ms Tara Sharma, along with Heads of Offices and other dignitaries.