Staff Reporter, June 1: In a landmark moment for India, 9-year-old Binita Chettri from Bokajan, Karbi Anglong district of Assam, secured third place—second runner-up—at the Britain’s Got Talent (BGT) 2025 grand finale held in London on May 31. She is the first Indian to ever reach the finals of the world-renowned talent show, proudly representing both the Indian subcontinent and the Gorkha community on an international stage. The coveted title was claimed by British magician Harry Moulding, while LED dance troupe The Blackouts finished in second place. Despite not taking the top spot, Binita captivated the judges and audience with her dynamic dance routines, including backflips and intricate choreography, earning standing ovations across multiple rounds. In a heartwarming moment, she told viewers, “If I win, I’ll buy a pink princess house.” Hailing from the small village of Talbalijan, Binita’s journey to the global stage has been extraordinary. Her father, Amar Chettri—a poultry farmer and social activist—recognized her talent early and supported her training in Guwahati and Jaipur under the guidance of her aunt Amrita Devi and renowned choreographer Hardik Rawat. Though she advanced to the finale through public voting, supporters believe she might have placed higher had global voting been permitted. “If voting lines were open to countries like India, Nepal, and Bhutan, the results could have been different,” said journalist and BGT supporter Nanda Kirati Dewan, noting that over 20,000 missed calls were received from Indian fans seeking voting information. Binita’s feat has been widely celebrated. Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma praised her in a social media video, and industrialist Anand Mahindra called her a “world-class talent.” She also received ₹5 lakh in support from Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Chief Executive Member Dr. Tuliram Ronghang, and steady encouragement from local MLA and Deputy Speaker Dr. Numal Momin. In a post-finale video, Binita thanked supporters from the UK and across Asia, saying, “The love from India, Nepal, and Bhutan gave me strength on stage.” She expressed her heartfelt desire to meet “Himanta Mama” and personally thank the Chief Minister for his blessings. From a remote village in Assam to the bright lights of London, Binita’s story is one of dreams, dedication, and global inspiration.
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