Shillong, March 13: The Meghalaya Icon 2025 – a music competition with a cause, took center stage at Malki Ground, bringing together the finest musical talents from across the state.

This year’s edition featured nine bands from various districts, all competing not just for the coveted title but also to spread a powerful message of HIV/AIDS awareness through their performances.

A Platform for Music and Social Change
Meghalaya Icon, a flagship initiative aimed at using music as a tool for social change, has been instrumental in educating and engaging young people in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Organized in collaboration with the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), the event seeks to leverage the influence of music and youth culture to create awareness about HIV prevention, stigma reduction, and responsible behavior.

Over the years, the event has grown into one of the most impactful youth-centric awareness campaigns in the state, blending entertainment with education. Bands participating in the competition are encouraged to incorporate messages related to safe practices, HIV testing, treatment access, and the importance of breaking stereotypes surrounding the disease.

The Battle of the Bands
The competition witnessed an electrifying showdown as bands delivered power-packed performances, fusing creativity with strong social messages. From rock and metal to fusion and folk influences, the event showcased the diverse musical talent Meghalaya is known for.

After an intense contest, the title of Meghalaya Icon 2025 was clinched by Magnificent Obsession, whose compelling performance and socially relevant lyrics captivated both the audience and judges. Their music carried a message of hope, resilience, and awareness, making them worthy winners of the grand prize of ₹1,50,000.

The first runner-up position was secured by Remnants, a band that impressed with their powerful stage presence and a thought-provoking theme, earning them a cash prize of ₹1,00,000. Ria Sharak emerged as the second runner-up, delivering a soulful performance that resonated with the crowd, taking home ₹80,000.

Additionally, the Best Five bands received ₹10,000 each as a token of recognition for their outstanding contributions.

Special Recognitions
To celebrate individual excellence, awards were also given in the following categories:

Best Vocalist
Best Bassist
Best Guitarist
Best Drummer
Best Theme Song (for a composition that best encapsulated the spirit of HIV/AIDS awareness)
These awards aimed to encourage musicians to continue using their art as a medium for advocacy and social change.

The event was graced by Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he lauded the efforts of the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society and the participating musicians for amplifying awareness through music.

As the night concluded with the winners celebrating their hard-earned victories, Meghalaya Icon 2025 proved once again that music can be a catalyst for change. The event not only showcased the incredible musical prowess of the state but also reinforced the significance of continued awareness and education in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Also Read: Manggakgre Sub-Centre’s upgradation to PHC nears completion, 85% work completed

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