 Early Times Report
MALIGAON, Dec 10: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) successfully concluded the Ghum Festival 2025 with a grand closing ceremony presided over by General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway, Shri Chetan Kumar Shrivastava. This year's edition emerged as one of the most successful so far, marked by several first-time initiatives including the Kurseong Literature Festival, the Iron Sherpa Heritage Run, the DHRUMA Music Festival, open-roof cultural performances onboard trains and a series of heritage walks, exhibitions and art showcases. With wider participation, deeper local collaboration and significantly expanded programming, the festival has further cemented its reputation as the premier celebration of hill heritage, culture and the legacy of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
DHR also celebrated the 26th anniversary of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status with a landmark community event, the inaugural "Iron Sherpa Heritage Run", organised exclusively for the residents of the hills. Beginning at the iconic Darjeeling Chowrasta and concluding at Ghum, India's highest railway station, the run drew nearly 200 enthusiastic participants, symbolising the enduring bond between the local community and the historic mountain railway. Inspired by its overwhelming success, DHR announced that the Iron Sherpa Heritage Run will become an annual event held every year on 5th December to commemorate DHR's inscription as a World Heritage Site.
Following the run, participants and guests enjoyed a unique open-roof cultural programme onboard the Darjeeling - Ghum - Darjeeling train, which showcased the vibrant music, dance and artistic traditions of the hills, transforming the journey into a moving celebration of heritage and community spirit. Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of DHR extended heartfelt gratitude to all partners, participants and supporters, reaffirming DHR's commitment to preserving its rich heritage while building meaningful connections with the people who make it truly special. |
