Kalimpong, Oct. 21: This Diwali, Kalimpong will celebrate the sound of music as the town’s main thoroughfare plays host to a two-day fest.

D.B. Giri Road will be converted into a concert arena to stage the event, which will feature songs in a number of languages, including Nepali, Hindi and English.

This is the first time that a programme is being organised on the main road.

The musical programme, which will be part of the Diwali celebrations on October 24 and 25, is being organised by the Main Road Business Community.

“We are organising this two-day musical show which promises to be an attraction for local people and tourists alike,” said Kapil Periwal, executive member, Main Road Business Community.

The programme is being held in a bid to revitalise Diwali celebrations in the town.

“The main reason for organising this show was that Diwali in Kalimpong had begun to lose its charm. Compared to eight years ago, we hardly see any people coming to the main road to take part in festivities. We just wanted to bring back the spirit of the earlier years,” said Periwal.

Speaking about the reason behind Kalimpong losing out on Diwali celebrations over the years, Periwal said: “Earlier, people flocked to the main road to see the fireworks which was a big attraction. Around 1995, some major fires broke out during the season bringing the celebrations to an end.”

The Kali puja on the main road is being conducted by the business community. The musical programme will be held in association with Rageshree Kala Niketan, a music school. Members and students of the school will perform at the event.

“The musical programme is being designed in a way that will cater to everyone’s taste,” said Periwal.

A teacher of the school, Yogendra Ghatani, said the show would include a variety of programmes and will aim at entertainment for all. The show will feature popular film songs and cover versions of songs by popular artistes. There will also be dance performances including traditional items and dances from films and music videos.

The musical programme will start from six in the evening till nine at night. No vehicles will be allowed to enter the main road during this period.

The programme will be funded through collecting donations from the business establishments located on the main road.