This is an interesting anecdote extracted from an article published in Himalayan Times, 2004 related to Lady Mountbatten on her visit to Sikkim. The year then was 1947 and a summer month. It was her only visit to Sikkim and she was accompanied by her daughter. Prior to her visit to Sikkim, she had stayed back at Kalimpong for two days and on the third day of her arrival at the Hills of Darjeeling Districts, she decided to visit Gangtok, the then capital of the Himalayan Kingdom of Sikkim. Chogyal Tashi Namgyal, the king of Sikkim had invited Lady Mountbatten to Gangtok.
On that joyous day, Chogyal Tashi Namgyal had particularly arrived at Rangpo to receive the special dignitary. Chogyal was to receive Lady Mountbatten at Rangpo Dak-bungalow. 1935 Ford V8 Tourer model having the number DJPC 405 arrived at Rangpo, the border between India and Sikkim at around 10.30 am and the guests were taken directly to Rangpo Dak-bungalow. Hartka Bahadur Diyali was the driver who had the honour to drive.
After the end of the reception, it was decided that Lady Mountbatten and her daughter would be driven in Chogyal’s car leaving the vehicle from Kalimpong at Rangpo itself. In a fascinating incident, the ADC accompanying Lady Mountbatten refused to let the lady inside the Chogyal’s car. The Chogyal’s car had a flag of Sikkim on its flag post which was annoying for the British officials. It was only after the Sikkim Flag was replaced with the British Flag, Lady Mountbatten entered the car. Lady Mountbatten and her daughter stayed at Sikkim for three days.
The feeling of patriotism was above everything and people should learn it in a British way!!
pic: himalayantimes blog
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