Mangaluru, Jan 1: Ignoring the threats issued by saffron outfits like Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal against what they call the “exhibition of western culture and vulgarity”, the coastal city erupted in a blaze of colour and light at midnight as the world ushered in the New Year in style.
Hundreds of people, including men and women, thronged the main roads in the last moments of 2017 to witness the celebrations amidst fireworks. Spirit of the crowd rose as midnight approached and crackers made the sky colourful as the clock struck 12 midnight.
People were seen exchanging New Year greetings by shaking hands and hugging each other.
Hotels and clubs in and around the city had offered special loads of gifts to its customers in an attempt to make their New Year celebrations a memorable one. Prominent hotels offered sumptuous food, live music, dance competition, unlimited food and some colourful events.
The Ocean Pearl, Summer Sands Beach Resort, Pandit Health Resort and Spa, City Beach Resort, Hotel Indrani Amrut Palace, Mukka, Hotel Indrani Palace, Mukka, Lobo's River View, Thirsty Turtle, Mangaluru, Dirt Track 4th Mile, Kuloor ground, Panambur Beach, The DV8 Lounge, Empire Mall are some of the places where grand parities were held.
Those who refrained from expensive New Year parties welcomed the year 2018 in front of Television in their houses.
On the New Year’s Eve prayers were also held in churches across the city. Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza celebrated the Mass at Bajal Church
On the other hand police had tightened security arrangements across the city as saffron brigade had threatened to barge into pubs that allow disc jockeying (DJ) and partying beyond 11pm.
Police teams were formed to curb instances of youth and students misbehaving with women in the guise of wishing them. They have also warned of strict action against persons indulging is drag races, driving vehicles rashly, drinking and driving, creating ruckus, drinking on beaches and conducting dances or programmes which are obscene.
The police had also set up surveillance cameras to ensure law and order amidst the New Year celebrations on the beaches.
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