Imphal, Dec 15 (UNI ) Chief Minister N. Biren Singh handed over a cash reward of Rs. 10 lakh to renowned singer Mandakini Takhellambam in recognition of her outstanding performance at Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma singing reality show at a felicitation ceremony held at Chief Minister’s Secretariat today.



The occasion turned out to be a momentous one for Mandakini as it was organised before a huge crowd gathered at the complex for the combined Meeyamgi Numit and Hill Leaders’ Day of this month. The Chief Minister also presented a bouquet and a traditional scarf (Lengyan) to her amidst a huge round of applause.



N. Biren Singh congratulated Mandakini for her fine performance that could secure a place in Top-11 of the popular TV reality show and win millions of heart all over the country and the world. He observed that hard work, struggle and hard-earned achievements should always be acknowledged and encouraged.



The Chief Minister expressed glad and gratitude to his Council of Ministers and the MLAs for instantly showing willingness and interest when he brought up the matter of rewarding Mandakini. Lauding Mandakini for making Manipur more popular, N. Biren Singh also extended his best wishes for her future life and career.



Mandakini expressed her profound thankfulness and respect to the Chief Minister for his unstinting support and encouragement. She said that it was a matter of huge pride and extreme joy that she was the only contestant, who received support from the Chief Minister. Mandakini, who even got emotional and tried to hold back tears of happiness during her brief speech, said that she felt honoured when she conveyed to the judges and contestants about Chief Minister’s support for her. She is greatly indebted to the Chief Minister for his encouragement, Mandakini added.



UNI NS AND