Agartala, January 26, 2026: In a proud moment for Tripura, the all-girls band from Holy Cross School, Karbook, Gomati district, has earned national recognition by representing the state at the prestigious National School Band Competition held in New Delhi. The event serves as a key selection platform for the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path.

Out of 763 teams and over 18,000 students who competed at the state level across India, only 94 teams advanced to the zonal stage. From there, just 18 school bands representing 11 states were shortlisted for the national finale, according to a press release from the Press Information Bureau.

The Holy Cross ensemble’s journey began with a first-place finish in the state-level competition in Tripura. They then traveled to Jharkhand, where they triumphed in the eastern zonal round, securing their place among the country’s top school bands.

Though the team concluded the national finals with a consolation prize, their participation marked a historic milestone for the Karbook subdivision and the broader Gomati district. Their achievement has been hailed as a testament to the emerging talent and determination of students from rural regions.

The National School Band Competition, organized to instill discipline and patriotism among schoolchildren, offers a rare opportunity for young musicians to perform on a national platform. For the students of Holy Cross School, it was a chance to demonstrate their musical prowess and precision before a distinguished audience in the capital.

As the nation prepares for the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the dedication and spirit of the Karbook girls band stand as a powerful symbol of aspiration and excellence from the Northeast.