Darjeeling Fest 2019 to mark arrival of festive and tourist season in Hills
Darjeeling: Darjeeling is all set to ring in the festive as well as the tourist season with the Darjeeling Fest 2019.
Organised by the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, the festival will be flagged off on September 20 and will continue till September 27. The festival will be held in different venues in Darjeeling.
"The festival is being organised to give a boost to tourism which is the economic mainstay of this region. This year, India has been chosen as the host country by the United Nations to commemorate World Tourism Day. The theme this year is Tourism and Jobs: a better future for all," said Anit Thapa, Chairman, GTA.
"The festival is a celebration of the rich and diverse culture of Darjeeling showcased through music, art, dance, sports. The Hill town has always been a joyful place and through this festival we will celebrate peace, harmony and joy," said Anil Biswakarma, coordinator.
The festival will host flower shows, pet shows, fashion shows, football, taekwondo, photography, art, body building, archery, bike rallies and cultural shows. Traditional sports like "Chungi" will also find a place in the festival.
"The festival will be flagged off with a colorful parade from the Darjeeling Motor Stand on September 20 at 10am. The residents dressed in traditional attire depicting the rich and diverse culture of Darjeeling will take part in the parade. The festival will come to an end on September 27 on World Tourism Day," said organizer Priya Pundit.
An Inter College Fest "Confluence" in also on the cards. "We have been organising Confluence successfully since 2007. It is to promote creativity and an excellent platform for exchange of ideas among students," said organiser Rajeev Thatal. Confluence will be held on September 27 and 28 at the Jorebunglow Degree College. Thirteen colleges from Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Sikkim will take part in the festival.
The festival will include music, cultural shows, quiz, extempore speech, art, photography, documentary, short film shows and career guidance.
