Kalimpong’s Kumudini Homes band – the first pipes and drums band from India to perform at a global military event in Switzerland

Kumudini Homes is situated in the hills of a small region Kalimpong, in West Bengal. It is one of the oldest Madhyamik curriculum boards that has been running and catering to the weaker sections of society. Kumudini Homes is also one of the first schools in Kalimpong to start a pipes and drums band back in the 1940s which lasted for three decades until the 70s. Later in 2010, it was revived back and has been constantly achieving greater heights. The main objective of the school band to perform all Scottish tunes is to keep the legacy alive. What adds a pinch of uniqueness to this band is their musical arrangements blended with Scottish tunes and Nepali folk songs.

The Basel Tattoo is a grand annual military event where bands from the elite military and a few non-military perform amongst the audience. The event is basically a musical performance captivating the audience with the sound of pipes and showcasing the amalgamation of drills and drums. The show is slated to start from 15th July. The Kumudini Homes school band is all set to create history by being the first school band to represent India to perform in the 15th Basel Tattoo. 

The band comprising of 21 members along with the teachers will reach the event on 12th July and is said to be a part of 33 events till 25th July in Basel. Speaking with Siliguri Times, the school’s assistant teacher Rajesh Bhusal, stated that this is the first time that a school band has been invited to perform in the global event and it is a moment of pride not just for the school but for the entire nation. This is the first time where India will be performing and the boys are proud to represent the country on a global platform for the very first time in history. Apart from their band performance, the school is also set to showcase the “Khukuri Dance” at the event. The khukuris will be provided by the Swiss management as it is not possible to carry them while travelling due to security reasons.  

Basel Tattoo is the second-largest military event that has been taking place since 2006. This is the 15th edition of the annual military event comprising musical events for 10 days that display marching bands and drills. The Kalimpong band will return after 25th July. Renowned bands like Red Hot Chilli Pipers are set to conclude the mega event.