New Year celebrations light up India under tight security
Despite the cold, Connaught Place and Vasant Vihar filled with revellers eager to celebrate the New Year together.
India ushered in 2026 with festive cheer, grand celebrations, and crowds filling streets and landmarks across the country, even as state governments ensured tight security to keep the festivities safe. From the bustling metropolis of Delhi to the scenic hill towns of Himachal Pradesh, people gathered to welcome the New Year with music, lights, and laughter, making the transition from 2025 to 2026 a shared national experience.
In major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, iconic landmarks became focal points for celebrations. India Gate, Connaught Place, and Marine Drive drew thousands of revellers who counted down the final seconds of 2025 together. The atmosphere was vibrant, with families, friends, and tourists joining the crowds, soaking in the energy, and sharing in the communal excitement. Despite the chilly winter evening in Delhi, Connaught Place and Vasant Vihar remained lively, with people walking through markets, taking selfies, and enjoying the festive spirit.
Tourists added to the cosmopolitan mix. A visitor from Punjab told IANS, “I have come from Punjab to celebrate the New Year here, and I hope this year is good for everyone.” Another remarked, “It is cold, but we are happy to welcome 2026 here with our friends.” Their enthusiasm captured the spirit of a nation that celebrates together despite the weather or the challenges of everyday life.
Authorities, anticipating large gatherings, stepped up security measures across the country. In Delhi, senior police officials closely monitored crowds, deploying 1,469 personnel across the West District alone. Six Assistant Commissioners of Police and one Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police oversaw operations, ensuring smooth movement of people, preventing untoward incidents, and maintaining law and order. Traffic advisories were issued, checkpoints were set up, and restaurants and hotels were guided to handle the influx safely.
Rajasthan implemented stringent traffic safety measures, including vehicle inspections and strict action against drunk driving, while Maharashtra allowed eateries, pubs, and hotels to operate until 5 a.m. to accommodate partygoers. Bengaluru, expecting more than ten lakh attendees at various locations, deployed around 20,000 police personnel to manage the crowds and ensure safety throughout the city.
Even as the eastern parts of the world had already bid farewell to 2025, hill stations like Shimla and Manali saw a rush of tourists braving the biting cold to welcome the New Year amidst snow-capped mountains and festive lights. Families, friends, and couples celebrated with bonfires, music, and street festivities, making the experience magical despite sub-zero temperatures.
From urban streets to mountain towns, India’s New Year celebrations combined joy, togetherness, and vigilance. While the country celebrated, authorities’ planning and deployment highlighted the balance between festivity and safety, ensuring that 2026 arrived on a note of excitement, warmth, and security for everyone.