Ziro, Sept. 27, 2025: The Ziro Festival of Music (ZFM), one of India’s most celebrated music festivals, opened this year with Sikkim as the official partner state, bringing its vibrant culture, cuisine, and tourism to the heart of the festival.
The inaugural day saw the presence of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and Union DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Highlighting the partnership, CM Pema Khandu visited the Sikkim Pavilion along with Minister Tshering Thendup, praising the display that beautifully showcased the Himalayan state’s cultural richness. He emphasized that the collaboration underscores Sikkim’s commitment to cultural exchange and promoting the Northeast to the world.
Khandu also lauded the festival’s self-sustaining ticketing model, noting that every ticket directly supports music, culture, and the eco-friendly spirit of the event. He, along with CM Tamang and DyCM Mein, symbolically purchased tickets to reinforce the importance of community participation.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Tamang expressed gratitude for the opportunity to spotlight Sikkim’s heritage at ZFM, while Minister Thendup stressed that tourism, music, and culture together form a powerful medium of regional integration.
Over the years, ZFM has grown into a global stage, drawing both Indian and international artists, and giving recognition to several emerging bands. With Sikkim’s partnership this year, the festival promises not only a feast of music but also a deeper cultural exchange, celebrating the unity and diversity of the Northeast.
