Chandigarh, neighbouring states usher in 2011 with gusto

CHANDIGARH - Overcast skies and chilly weather could not dampen the spirit of the people of the union territory of Chandigarh and the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana, and they celebrated the New Year’s eve with full enthusiasm.

The city hotels, restaurants, clubs and discotheques saw a huge rush of revelers Friday night. Lavish and theme-based parties and special DJ nites were organised at these places.

Many organisers invited Punjabi singers, Bollywood fame item girls and special dance troupes from Mumbai and Delhi to enthrall their guests. The Chandigarh administration had also arranged a special Musical Nite at Sector 17, the commercial hub of Chandigarh.

“We are offering pick and drop facility to our guests. We made special arrangements and offered elaborate New Year menus,” Ramesh Singhal, cookery manager at a Chandigarh hotel, told IANS.

Besides, around 12 midnight, youngsters took to the streets and danced to the bhangra beats in the upscale Sectors 7, 8 and 9. However, the police too were out in force and made full arrangements to keep an eye on hooligans and anti-social elements.

In Punjab, the New Year parties were hosted at various farm-houses and resorts.