SIkkim: OMAS marks 12th foundation year with grand week-long celebration in Gangtok

The Organisation of Musicians and Artists of Sikkim (OMAS) is all set to celebrate its 12th foundation year with a grand week-long event from March 21 to March 26 at MG Marg, Gangtok. The event, titled Souvenirs of Sikkim, aims to provide a vibrant platform for local artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses while promoting the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim.

OMAS, which has been a crucial part of Sikkim’s music and art scene for over a decade, announced the details of the celebration during a press briefing.

OMAS was founded in 2012 with the vision of creating opportunities for musicians and artists in Sikkim. Before its establishment, local artists had very few avenues to showcase their talents. Social media was just beginning to gain popularity in the region, and there was no dedicated online space for artists to connect and promote their work.

Recognizing this gap, OMAS launched its first initiative—a social media page called Sikkim Rocks. This platform allowed artists to share their music, performances, and creative work with a larger audience. Soon, OMAS began organizing live performances, talent showcases, and artist networking events.

One of OMAS’s significant contributions was providing artists with a structured platform where they were not only invited to perform but also respected and recognized for their talents. It played a major role in ensuring that local musicians and performers were given the right opportunities to express themselves.

Over the years, OMAS expanded its reach and influence. In 2013, it launched an artist welfare movement to support musicians, dancers, and other creative professionals. That same year, OMAS introduced a theme song project, which included tracks like Wear Off and Stand Up for Your Rights, advocating for artistic freedom and social change.

Apart from promoting art and music, OMAS has been actively involved in charity and social causes. The organization has conducted numerous charity shows and fundraising events for victims of natural disasters.

OMAS played a key role in relief efforts for flood victims in Uttarakhand, Kerala, and Nagaland, raising around Rs 21–22 lakh worth of goods and financial aid. The funds were directly donated to relief departments to help affected communities rebuild their lives.

During times of crisis, OMAS has consistently stepped forward to use music and art as a tool for change, proving that artists are not just entertainers but also responsible members of society.

This year, OMAS is celebrating its 12th anniversary in a grand manner with a special event, Souvenirs of Sikkim, at MG Marg, Gangtok, from March 21 to March 26. The main objective of the event is to highlight local talent, showcase Sikkim’s cultural heritage, and promote small businesses.

One of the key attractions of the event will be 25 stalls featuring a variety of products from small-scale industries, startups, and artisans. These stalls will offer handcrafted souvenirs, traditional arts and crafts and unique products that represent the essence of Sikkim.

The event is being supported by the Department of Commerce and Industries under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme. This initiative will provide small business owners and artisans a great opportunity to sell their products to tourists and visitors, ensuring that people take back an authentic souvenir from Sikkim rather than imported goods.

“Every year, thousands of tourists visit Sikkim, but most of them end up buying non-local, mass-produced souvenirs. With Souvenirs of Sikkim, we want to ensure that tourists and visitors take home something truly representative of Sikkim’s rich culture and heritage,” said an OMAS representative during the announcement.

One of the most exciting features of the event will be the Open Mic Sessions, designed to give budding artists a stage to perform. While Sikkim already has many established musicians, OMAS has always focused on nurturing young talent and providing them with the right exposure.

“We do not believe in selecting a few artists. This platform is open to everyone who wants to showcase their talent. If you are an artist, a musician, or a performer, you are welcome to join and express yourself,” said OMAS President Leezum Bhutia.

The inaugural ceremony will take place on March 21 at 1:00 PM, with Gangtok’s MLA, Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, officially opening the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The day will also feature a visit from sponsors, an open mic session, and performances by various artists.

OMAS has not only been working to promote artists but has also been actively advocating for their rights and welfare. The organization strongly believes that artists should be given legal protection and financial security to continue their creative work without struggles.

Many artists invest time, effort, and money in their craft, but they often lack proper financial backing and institutional support. OMAS has been pushing for the introduction of an Artist Protection Guarantee Act, which would provide artists with essential protections, benefits and recognition.

“There is a need for a system where artists are not only valued for their performances but also supported in their journey. Music and art require dedication, practice, and proper equipment. There should be policies in place to ensure artists get the respect and security they deserve,” an OMAS spokesperson said.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, OMAS will also be felicitating two late artists, Melo Gatso and Rahul Rai of Tribal Red Cross, for their contributions to Sikkim’s music and art scene. The posthumous honors will be presented on March 26, the concluding day of the event.

Speaking about the importance of artistic platforms, one of the OMAS members said, “As artists, our stage is where we truly feel alive. When we perform, the audience’s reaction, the applause, the energy; these are the things that drive us. That is why platforms like OMAS are so essential. They help artists overcome stage fear, gain confidence, and connect with their audience.”

OMAS also acknowledged the continuous support it has received over the years from its well-wishers and supporters, despite not conducting a formal membership drive. The organization has always welcomed individuals who are passionate about art and culture.