Bhubaneswar, July 26:Odisha's Jyotirmayee Nayak emerged as the winner ofIndian Idol Season 16, capping off months of outstanding performances and intense competition on the popular singing reality show.

In the grand finale held on Sunday, Jyotirmayee defeated fellow finalists Anshika Chonkar, Manraj Veer Singh, Myscmme Bosu, Suhail Sufi and Tanishk Shukla to lift the coveted trophy along with a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh.

Throughout the season, Jyotirmayee won praise from judges and celebrity guests for her exceptional vocal performances. Her rendition ofO Jab Tak Hai Jaan Jaane Jahan Main Nachungiearned a standing ovation from veteran actress Hema Malini, while her soulful performance ofJaane Kyun Log Mohabbat Kiya Karte Hain deeply moved actress Leena Chandavarkar, who said she would love to hear the classic song in Jyotirmayee's voice again.

Beyond the television stage, Jyotirmayee has already established herself in the Odia music industry and has also contributed to music therapy programmes for cancer patients.

Expressing her joy after the victory, Jyotirmayee said winningIndian Idol Season 16  felt "absolutely surreal." She described the journey from entering the auditions with nothing but a dream to becoming the champion as life-changing, adding that every performance helped her grow as a singer, performer and individual.

She thanked the television channel, production team, judges and everyone who supported her throughout the competition. Calling the trophy a shared achievement, she said it belonged to all those who believed in her and helped turn her dream into reality. She also expressed her hope of continuing to create music that touches hearts, inspires people and makes everyone proud.

The star-studded grand finale featured judges Shreya Ghoshal and Badshah, while celebrated artistes Usha Uthup, Udit Narayan, Papon, Kumar Sanu, Shehnaaz Gill and Urmila Matondkar joined the celebrations with special performances and interactions.