Gulshan Garg wins ‘Voice of Shivratri’ title

The grand finale of the International Shivratri Mahotsav concluded with the much-anticipated ‘Voice of Shivratri’ competition. Mandi’s Gulshan Garg emerged as the winner, securing the prestigious title along with a cash prize of Rs 51,000. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan honoured the winners during the closing ceremony.

Vikas Vike from Ludhiana was the first runner-up, winning Rs 31,000, while Anand Kumar from Damiel Panga, Karsog, bagged the second runner-up position with Rs 21,000. Special awards were also presented, with Shubham Chopra from Shimla recognized as the Best Stage Performer and Ragini from Jogindernagar receiving the Unique Voice award.

The competition featured three rounds, testing participants in Bollywood music, folk/devotional songs, and a fusion/semi-classical performance. A panel of esteemed judges, including D. Uma (Degree College, Sujanpur), Dr Hemraj Chandel (Degree College, Kotsera), Dr Manohar (Degree College, Bilaspur) and Bollywood singer Arvind Singh Rajput, evaluated the contestants.

Organised under the supervision of Rohit Rathour, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the cultural sub-committee, the event provided a platform for emerging artistes. The competition initially shortlisted 10 participants through auditions.

Winners expressed gratitude to the district administration for fostering local talent and promoting cultural engagement. The ‘Voice of Shivratri’ competition has been hailed as a significant initiative in celebrating music and artistry during the festival.