Namchi Rankey Mela 2026 Day Five Highlights Living Heritage Through Sports, Culture and Exhibitions

Day five of Namchi Rankey Mela 2026 unfolded in Namchi with cultural programmes, rural sports and heritage displays, drawing a large gathering of visitors. The mela continued its focus on Sikkim’s living traditions through performances, community participation and exhibitions.

Health and Culture Minister calls festivals a living identity

The programme was attended by Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Culture, GT Dhungel, as the chief guest. N B Pradhan, who is an MLA from the Melli constituency and also an advisor linked with agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, veterinary services and fisheries, attended as the guest of honour. Other participants included Area MLA and Patron of Rankey Mela 2026 Satish Chandra Rai, along with senior district officials and members of the mela committee.

Addressing the gathering, Dhungel said local festivals reflect Sikkim’s identity, traditions and cultural heritage. He noted that such celebrations help preserve customs and values passed down through generations and strengthen social harmony. He also spoke about the need to address the erosion of traditional values, urging a disciplined and culturally conscious society.

Dhungel added that the state’s commitment to promoting Sikkim’s heritage remains steady under the leadership of the Chief Minister. He also highlighted the importance of indigenous medicinal knowledge and encouraged people to stay connected with nature while upholding moral values from elders and parents.

School marathon, traditional games and heritage stalls

The festivities included a school-level marathon organised with the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Namchi. The event saw 146 students from schools across Namchi and neighbouring areas. In the girls’ category, Aakansha Thapa won first place, with Shristi Lepcha second and Bibika Basnett third. In the boys’ category, Riksang Sherpa took the top spot, followed by Anmol Tamang in second and Aditya Chettri in third.

Traditional games and rural sporting events such as tug of war, balloon popping, shoe-tying races, chocolate-eating contests and sack races added to the spirit of the day. Self Help Groups, government departments and cultural troupes set up stalls featuring local products, indigenous crafts, traditional cuisine and public welfare initiatives. The Information and Public Relations Department, Namchi, also hosted an exhibition of rare vintage photographs showing aspects of Sikkim’s history and the evolution of Namchi.