PAID TRIBUTE TO THE ‘PRINCE OF DARKNESS’ OZZY OSBOURNE
Mokokchung’s very own Sideline stormed the stage to claim the top prize at SMASH Contest 3.2, with Hope for Humanity from Diphu, Karbi Anglong securing second place, as The Garden Super Market, Dimapur erupted in a night of riffs, roars, and heavy metal chaos on Saturday. The event, themed Heavy Metal, saw top bands from across the Northeast battle for glory in front of a headbanging crowd.
This year’s edition also paid tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne (1948–2025), the legendary “Prince of Darkness,” with a dramatic memorial backdrop and his iconic quotes. One of the most emotional moments of the night came when the crowd cheered and sang along to Ozzy’s classic ‘Mama, I’m Coming Home’ waving their mobile flashes in the air, a heartfelt farewell to the heavy metal icon.
The lineup featured Sideline, Shade of Time, Entropy, Armored, Skorn, Hope for Humanity, and Apocalypse, each delivering explosive covers of bands like Pantera, Dream Theater, Sepultura, and Iron Maiden, alongside original theme-inspired compositions.
The Sideline dominated with Cowboys from Hell and unmatched stage energy, while Hope for Humanity Impressed with Sound of Truth and their original False Inception.
The event was host by Ikathy and powered by I.O-KI, Audio Garage, OnCue, The Garden, Tsuipu, and Action Powerline, whose support helped bring the heavy metal spectacle to life.