Celebrations, from Kashmir to Coimbatore

JAMMU & KASHMIR
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah prodded separatists to join the dialogue process initiated by interlocutors in the state. "I hope that you will become part of the dialogue process and contribute for better future of the state," he said during his speech.

KARNATAKA
A quick exchange of greetings and a rather reluctant embrace — Governor HR Bhardwaj and Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa shared the dais at a function in Bangalore amid the ongoing bitter political battle between them. All eyes were riveted on the two as they greeted each other with a bouquet of flowers and posed for photographs.

MAHARASHTRA
The Shiv Sena took exception to Maharashtra governor K Sankaranaray-anan referring to the neighbouring Navi Mumbai area as Navi Bombay during his address. "It is not expected from the first person of the state," said Manohar Joshi, former Lok Sabha Speaker and Sena leader.

BIHAR/JHARKHAND
The Maoists, who had called for a boycott of Republic Day celebrations, hoisted black flags in several Bihar districts. In Jharkhand, Naxals blew up a school in Palamau district.

COIMBATORE
Seeking to highlight importance of farming and to enter the Guinness World Record book, a group of farmers formed a huge national flag with three tonnes of foodgrains.
The 27 by 30 metre flag was aimed creating awareness and encouraging traditional occupation of farming.