Archive · 2 Feb 2026
Darjeeling Celebrates 'Birthday' for First Time
Darjeeling celebrated its 'birthday' for the first time, marking the day it was transferred to the British East India Company in 1885.
The event was organized by social activists Palzo Tshering and Ananta Sharma and was attended by various political leaders.
The celebration took place at Lloyd’s cemetery, where the organizers emphasized that the event was apolitical.
The event included cleaning up the area, cutting a cake, and lighting candles.
The celebration also sparked discussions about Darjeeling's historical association with Sikkim and its complex past.
Some people argue that calling General Llyod the 'discoverer' of Darjeeling undermines the native people of the area.
Darjeeling celebrated its 'birthday' for the first time, marking the transfer to the British East India Company on February 1, 1885.
The event was organized by social activists Palzo Tshering and Ananta Sharma and was billed as apolitical.
The celebration took place at Lloyd’s cemetery, Old British Cemetery, Darjeeling, and included cleaning, cake-cutting, and candle lighting.
Various political leaders attended the event, including R.B. Rai, Sunil Rai, Mukund Raj Baraily, and Shankar Hang Subba.
The event sparked discussions about Darjeeling's historical association with Sikkim and the term 'discoverer' used for General Llyod.
- Who
- Social activists Palzo Tshering and Ananta Sharma, along with various political leaders
- What
- Celebration of Darjeeling's 'birthday' marking its transfer to the British East India Company
- When
- February 1, 1885 (historical event), recent celebration date not specified
- Where
- Lloyd’s cemetery, Old British Cemetery, Darjeeling
- Why
- To mark the historical transfer of Darjeeling and promote awareness of its complex past
- Date of Transfer
- February 1, 1885
- Organizers
- Palzo Tshering and Ananta Sharma
- Location of Celebration
- Lloyd’s cemetery, Old British Cemetery, Darjeeling
- Key Political Figures Present
- R.B. Rai, Sunil Rai, Mukund Raj Baraily, Shankar Hang Subba
- Historical Figure
- Gen G.W. Aylmer Llyod
- Historical Event
- Transfer of Darjeeling to British East India Company