Desi Rewind from Mokokchung emerged as the champions of Fusion of the Bands Season 3 – 2026, a Hindi music talent hunt organised by the Indian Army’s 3 Corps under Operation Sadbhavna.
The grand finale was held on Saturday at Bhagat Stadium, Rangapahar Military Station, where six shortlisted bands—After Party, Nikata Tamang and The Band (NTTB), Desi Rewind, Rock Revolt, The Muse, and Jack in the Box—delivered high-energy performances.
Governor of Manipur and Nagaland A.K. Bhalla attended the event as chief guest, while General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Corps (Spear Corps) Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar addressed the gathering. Former Governor and Chief Minister Dr S.C. Jamir, senior Army officers, and civil officials were also present.
Desi Rewind received a cash prize of Rs 3.5 lakh. Jack in the Box secured the first runners-up position with Rs 2.5 lakh, while NTTB finished second runners-up, winning Rs 1.5 lakh. The total prize money for the competition stood at Rs 8.5 lakh.
According to the organizers, the competition followed a rigorous three-stage selection process drawing musical talent from across Nagaland. The preliminary round was conducted online on January 24, with 35 bands participating, of which 12 advanced to the semi-finals.
The semi-finals were held live at Manekshaw Auditorium, Rangapahar, on January 29 and were judged by guitarist and vocalist of the DGP Band Moatemsu, Deputy Commandant of the ITBP and a singer-songwriter Yangertoshi and proprietor of Tribes Entertainment Alem Alia Jamir. The grand finale was judged by renowned musicians Bethel, Arenlong, and Akum Jamir.
Following the contest, guest performances were presented by social media sensation Agu Kath, beatbox-guitar duo CoZye, and the Mahila Police Band of the 15th NAP (IR).
Nagaland: Desi Rewind wins Fusion of the Bands Season 3
Staff Reporter