Shillong: Shillong went into a frenzy a little after Saturday past midnight when the results of the reality show India’s Got Talent Khoj-2 was announced and Shillong Chamber Choir walked away with the prize money of Rs 50 lakh. All roads and thoroughfares were choc-a-bloc when people came out to celebrate their favourite team -- Shillong Chamber Choir’s success. Bursting of crackers and drumbeats rent the air. There was an air of celebration in the city. That every home kept vigil until the final results were announced at 12.30 am and that many burst into tears of joy, says it all.

People in hordes thronged the residence of Neil Nongkynrih at Pohkseh. His parents, AH Scott Lyngdoh and Elvy Nongkynrih were ecstatic. Someone said to Scott Lyngdoh, "This is even better than winning an MP election. The mother of Damon Lyndem, spokesperson of Shillong Chamber Choir, whose three other siblings are also part of the Choir, was in tears. "It's unbelievable but true. Like they sang, all the glory should go to God," she said.

The elimination rounds gave some tense moments to the audience who were glued to their TV screens. Nearly all the finalists had their own niche and judging one from the other was difficult. In the end it was the passion and commitment of the people of Meghalaya who voted until their fingers ached, which won the day for the Shillong Chamber Choir. Going by the judges votes, the Choir was ranked fourth. The judges gave full marks to Sonia and Divakar, the acrobatic dancers and to Mandal and his percussionist team from Bengal.

But the votes offset the judges choice as their favourite teams were eliminated one by one. What was surprising was the resilience of the drummer from Arunachal Pradesh, Tako Taji who lasted until the very end. It became a contest between two North Eastern groups. But the final winner Shillong Chamber Choir walked away with the cheque of fifty lakh rupees.

Speaking from Mumbai, SCC team leader Neil said, "Our prelude was a Hindi song and we switched over to a song of praise to God, ending it with a crescendo that Iba performed with élan. As usual the Choir put their best foot forward. We thank all those who believed in us and voted for us".

Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma was overjoyed. "This is a proud and happy moment for us and I thank the people of Meghalaya for their whole-hearted support for Shillong Chamber Choir. We have established the SCC as brand Meghalaya and India has had to take notice of their talents. We should now strive to give similar platforms for the youth in our state and I am committed to doing that."

A beaming Dr Mukul Sangma was accompanied by Education Minister, Ampareen Lyngdoh and Mylliem MLA Ronnie Lyngdoh. Dr Sangma spoke of giving the SCC members a rousing welcome on their arrival.

~ ShillongTimes