HT Bureau
DIPHU, Jan 12: The Redeemer, a rock band from Diphu, Karbi Anglong, collected top honours at the prestigious Süngkotenem Beat Contest 2025, held at the picturesque Süngkotenem Park in Mopungchuket, Nagaland, on Friday.
The event, which drew a crowd of approximately 1,000 music enthusiasts, featured seven bands, including The Redeemer, the sole participant from Assam.
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The Süngkotenem Beat Contest was first organized in 2001, and evolved into a quadrennial Clash of the Bands competition, showcasing a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
The Redeemer’s outstanding performance earned them a cash prize of Rs 80,000, while runners-up Sideline from Mokokchung took home Rs 50,000.
Individual accolades were also awarded, with Sarsonot Ronghang (The Redeemer) named Best Vocalist, Klarhjohn Bey (The Redeemer) as Best Guitarist, Atir (Sideline) as Best Bassist, and Imsongti (Sideline) as Best Drummer. Each winner received Rs 5,000 in recognition of their exceptional talent.
The event was graced by retired IAS and advisor, law, and justice, and land revenue, chief guest TN Mannen.
Mannen praised the contest as a close contender to the renowned Hornbill Festival emphasising the importance of nurturing young musical talent and promoting cultural tourism in Mopungchuket.
Mannen encouraged the integration of traditional and Western music, advocating for the preservation of Mopungchuket’s rich cultural heritage.
The panel of judges, comprising renowned music experts Arenlong, Atsa Lang Roths, Chubawapang, and Arsashi Ozüküm, brought their expertise to the evening’s proceedings, ensuring a fair and exciting competition.
One of the band members and vocalist, Sarsonot Ronghang, said, “I thank the organisers of that event for the wonderful opportunity that we are so blessed to be a part of, and by the grace of God, we even won the battle. We also won the Best Vocalist and the Best Guitarist. And lastly, I thank the people who have supported us.”
