Mandeep Lama receives Chiya Kavita Puraskar 2025 for lifetime contribution to Sikkimese literature and arts

Renowned writer, playwright, musician, lyricist and translator Mandeep Lama was honoured with the Chiya Kavita Puraskar 2025 on Wednesday during a special event organised by the Chiya Kavita Group Sikkim at Rachna Books, Gangtok. The award was presented to Lama as a mark of deep respect and recognition for his decades-long contributions to literature, theatre, music and cultural life in Sikkim.

The award ceremony coincided with World Tea Day, a symbolic day chosen by the Chiya Kavita Group Sikkim to celebrate creativity, literature, and the cultural essence of tea; a staple and heritage symbol of the region. The organisers said that the award was presented to Lama in appreciation of his long-standing work in modernising theatre, promoting local art and nurturing a literary culture in the state.

Mandeep Lama, a resident of the Development Area in Gangtok, is widely known as a multifaceted cultural figure in Sikkim. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s through his powerful work in the field of theatre, where he introduced modern styles and techniques to local stage productions. Among his most notable works is the acclaimed play “Raktim Raat”, which is often credited with transforming the landscape of Sikkimese theatre.

But Lama’s contributions extend well beyond the stage. He is also a talented musician and lyricist, and his creative energy has influenced several areas of performing and literary arts. In addition to original work, he has translated numerous books, helping bridge linguistic and cultural divides.

At the ceremony, Chiya Kavita Group Sikkim awarded Lama with a cash prize, a memento and a certificate of appreciation. The organisers stated that Lama was selected not only for his artistic achievements but also for his commitment to the preservation and development of Sikkimese cultural identity. His impact on the fields of literature, education, theatre, and music was highlighted as being inspirational to younger generations of artists and writers.

The Chiya Kavita Puraskar is a prestigious annual literary award presented by the Chiya Kavita Group Sikkim, a collective of poets and writers based in Sikkim. The group is dedicated to promoting poetry, literature, and cultural events across the state. The award is typically given on or around World Tea Day either on May 21 or May 22, depending on the calendar year and celebrates individuals who have made remarkable contributions to literature, education, and cultural preservation.

The award ceremony is most often held at Rachna Books, an iconic bookstore in Gangtok, which has become a familiar venue for literary events in the region. In 2024, the Chiya Kavita Puraskar was awarded to Prabha Rai of Namchi. She was honoured for her literary work and for establishing a community library called the DG Reading Room Resource and Education Foundation in Dumi Gaon, a rural part of South Sikkim.