Darjeeling/Kalimpong, Jan 27:

Similar to every part of the country hills too celebrated the 64th Republic Day. In Darjeeling the day was celebrated at Chowrasta. District Magistrate Dr Soumitra Mohan hosted the national flag. During the program S.P Kunal Agrawal and other officials were present. Darjeeling police band played the National Anthem. In his brief address Dr Mohan appealed one and all to maintain peace.

Krishi Mela at Jamuni organised by GTA also observed this significant day. Renowned Bollywood playback singer, Sonu Nigam presented the patriotic songs.

Kalimpong celebrated the Republic Day in a grand manner on Saturday. Despite of the winter holidays, the school students partook in the Republic Day parade. The celebrations at Main Road witnessed Marathi and Khukuri dances by the students and the jawans of the 27 Mt Brigade Army.

The Kalimpong Sub Divisional Officer, unfurled the national flag at Main Road. Lt. Col. MS Gurung from 27 Mt. Division Brigade, Padmashree, Sonam Tshering Lepcha, Ward Councilor, GTS Sabhasad, etc was present during the function.

The celebrations was followed by a programme at Mela Ground during which, kite flying competition and 15 kms run was conducted. The race conducted by Kumudini Homes family started from 17 Mile and concluded at Mela Ground. Binod Tamang and Abhishek Karki from SUMI stood 1st and 2nd, respectively, while Basir Sharma from Kumudini Homes stood 3rd, in the mens category. Likewise, in the womens category, the winners were Renuka Rai from Sitang, Santa Sharma from Indo Tibetan and Menuka Khanal.

Also during the occasion, the para gliders showering flower petals from Delo landed at Mela Ground.