New cultural leadership welcomed with fanfare at Manan Bhawan

Traditional dances performed by the department’s artistes added colour and energy to the gathering, making the celebration both official and artistic.

LOCAL

7/19/20251 min read

In an event held at Manan Bhawan, the Culture Department of Sikkim officially welcomed its newly appointed Chairpersons on Wednesday. The programme, organised by the department, was graced by Hon’ble Minister for Culture, Shri GT Dhungel, as the Chief Guest. The ceremony marked a significant moment in Sikkim’s cultural governance as new leadership steps in to steer the state’s rich heritage and artistic pursuits into a new era.

The three chairpersons who were formally welcomed are Smt Bhim Kumari Sharma, appointed Chairperson of the Culture Department; Shri Tashi Tshering Bhutia, Chairperson of the Sikkim Music, Drama, Dance and Film Board; and Shri Sanjay Dilpali Rai, Chairperson of the Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Board.

In his opening address, Secretary of the Culture Department, Shri BK Lama, extended a warm welcome to Minister GT Dhungel and expressed heartfelt gratitude for his continued support and visionary leadership. Congratulating the new appointees, Lama said, “With capable leadership and proper coordination, we are confident the department will scale new heights and serve as a strong pillar of Sikkim’s cultural identity.”

The event was not just ceremonial but also cultural in its essence. Traditional dances performed by the department’s artistes added colour and energy to the gathering, making the celebration both official and artistic. These performances reflected the vibrant cultural fabric of the state and served as a symbolic welcome to the new leaders who will be shaping its future.

Addressing the gathering, Minister GT Dhungel offered both encouragement and guidance to the newly inducted chairpersons. Emphasising the importance of discipline and accountability in public service, he stated, “There is no shortcut to hard work. Punctuality and dedication to one’s duty are the highest forms of contribution an employee can offer to the state.” He assured full cooperation and extended his best wishes to the new leaders, expressing confidence in their ability to steer the department towards impactful outcomes.