The third edition of the Sikkim Kalakaar Bharosa Sammelan (SKBS) concluded at Manan Kendra in Gangtok on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Organised by the Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Board under the chief patronage of Chief Minister P.S. Golay, the event showcased artists from Sikkim, neighbouring regions and Nepal and drew several high-profile guests.
The closing day was attended by the Chief Minister’s spouse, former MLA Krishna Kumari Rai, Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, Nepalese actor Sandeep Chettri, and numerous invited artistes and dignitaries. In his address, Chief Minister P.S. Golay said SKBS — held annually since 2024 — celebrates the state’s artistic community and will be continued through 2034. “Art and culture are the pride of society,” he said, adding that unlike past administrations, his government will not use such events for electoral gain.
Golay outlined a long-term vision for SKBS, saying the government intends to expand the platform nationally and internationally. “Every year, we will invite artistes and celebrate their talents. We want our artistes to connect with the nation and globally. This is not just a two-day programme, we aim to take it to the global stage,” he said, noting that the Culture, Art and Heritage Development Board and the state government will honour artistes annually. He also referenced national recognition, saying the Prime Minister had spoken about Sikkim’s artistes during a recent visit.
Highlighting cross-border cultural ties, Golay praised Nepali artists for their support and said Sikkim’s artistes benefit from exchanges on platforms such as Nepal Idol and Poet Idol. He added that Sikkim is willing to support Nepali artistes when needed. The Chief Minister also stressed the state’s support for sports, arts and culture through initiatives including the Chief Minister’s Discretionary Grant (CMDG).
During the programme, Golay and his spouse felicitated filmmaker Tribeny Rai, Girish Pradhan of The Chronicle, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs winner Jetshen Dohna Lama, DGP Akshay Sachdeva and a range of artistes from film, theatre, fine arts and dance. The trailer for Tribeny Rai’s debut film Shape of Momo and the Board-produced Sikkim in a Minute were screened.
Golay distributed cheques under the CMDG and pledged that theatre groups and artistes who missed out this time would be included in future disbursements. The event concluded with cultural presentations by performers from Sikkim and Nepal.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/we-aim-to-take-skbs-to-global-stage-cm
Category:
Tags:
Publish Date:
