Shimla, Jan 26 (IANS): Braving bone-biting cold, people across Himachal Pradesh celebrated Republic Day on Sunday.

Governor Bandaru Dattatreya unfurled the national flag at the main function at the historic Ridge here where Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, his cabinet colleagues and government functionaries were among those present.

In snow-marooned Keylong, headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, and Rekong Peo in Kinnaur districts, the respective Deputy Commissioners presided over the official function.

Despite the chill, people took part in the flag unfurling ceremonies and witnessed a march past by security personnel as well as cultural programmes staged by children in all 12 district towns.

The Governor took the salute at an impressive parade by contingents of the police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Home Guards, Army, NCC and ex-servicemen.

Chief Justice L. Narayana Swamy unfurled the national flag at a function held in the complex of the Himachal Pradesh High Court here.