Mumbai/Bhubaneswar: Bringing immense pride to Odisha and delighting music lovers, Jyotirmayee Nayak from Bhubaneswar has been crowned the winner of Indian Idol Season 16.

Nayak created history by becoming the first contestant from Odisha to win the prestigious title. The 24-year-old singer clinched the top spot in a star-studded grand finale, outperforming first runner-up Tanishk Shukla and other finalists.

Her finale performances of “Saiyaan O Saiyaan” and “O Jab Tak Hai Jaan” received widespread acclaim, earning her standing ovations from both judges and the audience.

Along with the coveted trophy, Nayak was awarded a cash prize of ₹20 lakh.

A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science, Nayak is an alumna of KIIT University, Odisha. Throughout the season, she impressed judges Shreya Ghoshal, Vishal Dadlani, and Badshah with her consistently powerful and versatile performances.

Jyotirmayee hails from Baunsanal village in the Nilgiri block of Odisha’s Balasore district. She is a popular playback singer in the Odia music industry and a trained music therapist who works with cancer patients and expecting mothers.

Speaking about the most emotional moment after winning ‘Indian Idol 16,' Jyotirmayee Nayak said, “My journey has been full of ups and downs. Those who have followed my journey know there was a phase when I was unable to sing because I had a severe throat problem. From that stage to reaching the finale and eventually winning the trophy has been an incredible journey.”

“When I was performing, my only aim was to give my best performance. Even after my name was announced as the winner, I couldn't immediately process that I had actually won. I had manifested this moment. I always told myself, I will become the winner, with complete positivity and belief. Today, that dream has become a reality.”

The singer also expressed her gratitude to the TV channel for giving her the platform to grow as an artist.