Kiriachile Rangkau of Nkialwa village emerged as the winner of the ‘Zeme Heleurwak’ (solo singing competition) at a grand finale held on 20 December at St Xavier KG School, Jalukie Town.

The Zeme Heleurwak-cum-Winter Concert was organised by Zeme Music Association Nagaland (ZMAN).

Altogether, 27 Zeme artistes from Nagaland participated in the event, where the top five finalists took the stage for the coveted title. The other top five candidates who competed at the grand finale were Easter Disuang, Kenlumyile, Hungchile and Tabamyile.

The winner received a cash prize of Rs 10,000 along with musical instruments and got free audio and video production.

ZMAN has conducted three rounds of audition online where the top five finalists presented two songs each – one common English song and one Zeme song – during the finale.

The guest bands for the event were Paradigm Shift and Panic Station, who enthralled the crowd with their mesmerising performances. Thousands of crowds were also enthralled by guest artistes Sangneo Kholhou (Kuki), Hiamlungliu Panmei (Rongmei) and Lunikambo Newmai (Liangmai).

In his presidential address, ZMAN president, Keringsamyibe informed that the event was organised to identify the untapped talents of the Zeme artistes and promote local artistes by providing platforms such as this. He also acknowledged the sponsors, Jalukie administration, 25th Assam Rifles and other who were instrumental in making the programme a success. He further said that the ZMAN would continue to work for the artistes so as to uplift the younger generation.

The judges were president of Peren District Music Society, Namnahei Nza (chief guest judge), Rachel Samlamngaule Chuilo (guest judge), advisors ZMAN, Igalak Nreutuilang and Adim Riamei.

Earlier, the programme was blessed with invocation by the principal of St Xavier Hr Sec school Jalukie, Fr George Antony.