Dimapur, February 1: Desi Rewind from Mokokchung emerged as the champions of Fusion of the Bands Season 3 - 2026, a Hindi music talent hunt organised by the Indian Army 3 Corps under Operation Sadbhavna. The grand finale was held on Saturday at Bhagat Stadium, Rangapahar Military Station.
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| Desi Rewind from Mokokchung receives the winner’s cheque from Governor A.K. Bhalla after clinching the Fusion of the Bands Season 3 title at Rangapahar. |
The finale featured six shortlisted bands - After Party, Nikata Tamang and The Band (NTTB), Desi Rewind, Rock Revolt, The Muse, and Jack in the Box - who delivered high-energy performances before a large audience.
The event was graced by the Governor of Manipur and Nagaland, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as chief guest, along with the General Officer Commanding of 3 Corps (Spear Corps), Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar. Former Governor and Chief Minister S. C. Jamir, senior Army officers and civil officials were also present.
Desi Rewind walked away with a cash prize of ₹3.5 lakh. Jack in the Box secured the first runners-up position with ₹2.5 lakh, while Nikata Tamang and The Band finished as second runners-up, winning ₹1.5 lakh. The total prize money for the competition stood at ₹8.5 lakh.
According to the organisers, the competition followed a rigorous three-stage selection process drawing musical talent from across Nagaland. The preliminary round, conducted online on January 24, saw 35 bands participate, out of which 12 advanced to the semi-finals.
The semi-finals were held live on January 29 at the Manekshaw Auditorium, Rangapahar, and were judged by Moatemsu of the DGP Band, ITBP Deputy Commandant and singer-songwriter Yangertoshi, and Tribes Entertainment proprietor Alem Alia Jamir. Six bands progressed to the finals.
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The grand finale was judged by renowned musicians Bethel Tsuzu, Arenlong Longkumer and Akum Jamir. The Muse received a special encouragement award, with the Governor presenting the young band- led by a 10-year-old vocalist - with a cash prize of ₹30,000.
The evening also featured guest performances by social media sensation Agu Kath, beatbox-guitar duo CoZye, and the Mahila Police Band of the 15th NAP (IR). Organisers described the event as a vibrant celebration of Nagaland’s musical talent and cultural dynamism, aimed at providing young artistes a platform to showcase their creativity on a prestigious stage.
