Sikkim’s Kuzu Cultural Festival Celebrates 50 Years of Unity and Heritage

Sikkim celebrated a proud milestone on May 2, 2025, with the inauguration of the Kuzu Cultural Festival, a vibrant tribute to the state’s ethnic unity and rich heritage. Held as part of the 50th year of Sikkim’s statehood, the festival brought together communities from across the state in a colourful display of traditions, languages, and artistic expression. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang inaugurated the event in Gangtok, declaring it a celebration of peace, harmony, and the deep-rooted culture that makes Sikkim unique. The opening ceremony began with traditional blessings from local priests, followed by the rhythmic beats of folk drummers echoing through the heart of the city. Community representatives from the Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepali groups performed dances symbolising unity and mutual respect, setting the tone for a festival that bridges cultural diversity with shared pride. The chief minister addressed the gathering, highlighting Sikkim’s journey over five decades—from its peaceful merger with India in 1975 to its present-day reputation as a model of social inclusiveness. One of the most talked-about attractions of the festival was the heritage walk, which led participants through historic sites in Gangtok. Local guides narrated stories of Sikkim’s royal past, spiritual landmarks, and the evolution of its democratic governance. The walk allowed visitors to engage with Sikkim’s architectural legacy, blending monastic styles with colonial and modern influences. Residents and tourists alike found the walk a powerful reminder of the state’s layered identity. An art and photography exhibition at the festival venue drew hundreds of visitors. It featured works by young Sikkimese artists portraying everyday life, folklore, and the natural beauty of the region. Many pieces incorporated recycled materials, echoing the state’s commitment to sustainability. Installations representing Sikkim’s diverse flora and fauna, handmade textiles, and oral storytelling traditions offered immersive experiences for those unfamiliar with the region. Culinary traditions were also on full display. Stalls served indigenous dishes such as gundruk soup, phagshapa, and churpi, each made with organic ingredients sourced locally. Chefs from various communities collaborated to present fusion recipes that blended tribal tastes with modern techniques, reflecting how Sikkimese food has evolved while staying rooted in its past. Organisers noted that food was a powerful unifier, drawing people together and encouraging cross-cultural appreciation. Throughout the day, cultural workshops introduced attendees to traditional instruments, local dialects, and folk games. Children and youth participated in mask-making sessions and storytelling circles, ensuring that the festival passed down customs to the next generation. The Department of Culture and Heritage stated that preserving intangible heritage through active participation remained a key goal of the Kuzu Festival. In a significant announcement, the Chief Minister declared that the Kuzu Cultural Festival would become an annual event. He added that this initiative would not only preserve Sikkim’s multicultural ethos but also promote tourism by giving visitors a deeper understanding of the state’s soul. Officials also shared plans to document oral histories and community archives digitally, creating a living cultural repository for future generations. In the evening, a music concert featuring local and national folk bands brought the crowd to its feet. Artists performed in multiple languages, including Lepcha, Nepali, Bhutia, and Hindi, reinforcing the message of inclusive celebration. The fusion of instruments—from traditional damphu to modern guitar—captured the spirit of a Sikkim that honours its roots while embracing the present. As the festival continues over the weekend, thousands are expected to visit Gangtok to witness and participate in this cultural renaissance. With the Kuzu Cultural Festival, Sikkim has not only honoured its past but also taken a bold step into the future—one that celebrates unity in diversity and invests in cultural pride as a foundation for progress.