WCL Inter-Area Cultural Meet 2026-27 Concludes
The three-day Inter-Area Cultural Meet Competition 2026-27 was organised at WCL Headquarters from 02 to 04 September 2026.
A total of 11 teams, representing all 10 Areas of WCL and Headquarters, participated in the competition. Competitions were held in 29 disciplines, including Bhajan, Indian Folk Song, Banjo, Mouth Organ, Ghazal, Light Song, Comedy Skit, Orchestra, Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, Synthesizer, Guitar, Trumpet, Tabla, Flute, Indian Classical Dance, Folk Dance and Qawwali. A total of 332 employees participated in various competitions.
The grand closing and prize distribution ceremony was held at the Sanskrutik Bhawan, WCL Headquarters, on the concluding day, 04 September, 2026. WCL CMD Dr. Hemant Sharad Pandey graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Director (Finance & HR) Shri Bikram Ghosh, Director Technical (Projects & Planning) Shri Sandeep Paranjpe, and CVO Shri Ajay Madhukar Mhetre were present as Guests of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, CMD Dr. Hemant Sharad Pandey said that WCL emphasises on personality development, talent improvement and cultural awareness of its employees. He highlighted WCL’s rich tradition of encouraging sports, literature, music, dance and various artistic activities. He said that this tradition adds a human and vibrant dimension to WCL’s work culture. He emphasised the importance of embracing art alongside coal mining and encouraged employees to make art a meaningful part of their lives. He extended his best wishes to all the participating artists.
During the closing ceremony, Director (Finance & HR) Shri Bikram Ghosh, in his opening address, appreciated the initiative and said that such programmes provide employees with a platform to showcase their talent while fostering creativity, confidence and team spirit. He encouraged all participants to continue their musical practice and keep refining their talent.
On the occasion, Shri Ashish Murti, on behalf of the WCL Steering Committee, also addressed the gathering.
A total of 144 participants were felicitated for their outstanding performances in the competition.
In the Inter-Area Cultural Meet Competition 2026-27, the WCL Headquarters team emerged as the Winner, while the Pench Area team secured the Runner-Up position.
Members of the WCL Steering Committee and Welfare Board, General Managers and Heads of Departments at Headquarters, representatives of workers’ unions, senior officials and a large number of employees were present at the function.