The Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS), in collaboration with the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), hosted “Sonic Showdown”, a high-energy band battle for high school and higher secondary students, on September 26 evening at RCEMPA, Phezhu Jotsoma.
The valedictory programme was graced by Chief Engineer, PWD (Housing) Er. Hozheto Shikhu, who lauded the facilities now available for today’s youth. “Our generation never had these privileges.
Those who rose as musicians in the past truly struggled. I encourage the young generation to make the best use of these opportunities,” he said, while also urging students to acknowledge their musical gifts as God-given talents.
Project Director of TaFMA, Dr. Hovithal Sothu praised the extraordinary musical potential among Naga students and emphasized the growing opportunities for earning livelihoods through music.
The event, chaired by Naroenla, Youth Resources Officer, featured performances from NCS Band as the opening act and a special appearance by K3M Band, recent winners of the Best Regional English Rock Song at the Clef Music Awards 2025 in Mumbai.
Results:
1st Place: The Heavy Melodies (Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Shamator) – Rs. 1,00,000
2nd Place: Off The Records (Hope Academy, Dimapur) – Rs. 50,000
3rd Place: After Life (G. Rio School, Kohima) – Rs. 30,000
Consolation Prizes (Rs. 10,000 each): The Gears (Model Hr. Sec. Kohima), Sonic Sailor (Mayangnokcha Govt. Hr. Sec. Mokokchung), LM Stars (LM Hr. Sec. School), Escapism (Bethesda Hr. Sec. School), and Humble Heights (Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Phek). The evening celebrated not just competition but also the vibrant spirit of Naga youth, blending music, talent, and cultural pride.
