Hello, 2026! India Rings In The New Year, Celebrations Across Major Cities Amid Tight Security

Last Updated:January 01, 2026, 00:00 IST

As the clock struck midnight, the skies were illuminated with dazzling fireworks, and people gathered in key landmarks to celebrate the arrival of a new year.

Fireworks are seen over the historic Gateway of India on the eve of New Year. (PTI file photo) (PTI1_1_2020_000051B)

India rang in the New Year 2026 with grand celebrations, as cities across the country witnessed massive gatherings and festive events on the night of December 31st.

As the clock struck midnight, the skies were illuminated with fireworks, and people gathered in key landmarks to celebrate the arrival of a new year full of hope and possibilities.

In Delhi, the capital city, popular spots like India Gate, Connaught Place, and other key landmarks were packed with people celebrating in style.

In light of the large crowds, the Delhi Traffic Police put in place special arrangements to ensure safety. Over 680 police personnel were deployed, especially in high-traffic areas like Connaught Place, to monitor and manage the celebrations.

In Jammu and Kashmir, tourists flocked to Srinagar’s Lal Chowk to celebrate. The historic Ghanta Ghar and the surrounding streets were adorned with lights, and heightened security ensured a peaceful environment for both locals and visitors.

Uttarakhand’s Mussoorie and Himachal Pradesh’s Manali saw a significant influx of tourists as both hill stations became popular destinations for celebrating the New Year.

Rajasthan also saw a huge influx of visitors for the New Year celebrations, with lakhs arriving at popular tourist destinations across the state. Hotels, resorts, and clubs in Jaipur experienced heavy bookings, with many premium properties already sold out. New Year packages were priced up to Rs 1.5 lakh.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, saw a more spiritual celebration. During the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, ‘Swagatam 2026’ was spelt out with 1,001 lamps, creating a magical sight as the ghats were filled with devotees and tourists offering prayers and seeking blessings for the new year.

In Bengaluru, crowds gathered on Mahatma Gandhi Road and Brigade Road, where celebrations included street parties and music performances, adding to the vibrant energy of the city.

Global Celebrations

While India celebrated, the rest of the world also rang in the new year with spectacular events. In New Zealand, Auckland led the way with a stunning fireworks display above the Sky Tower.

The celebrations saw thousands gather in the city centre and on surrounding volcanic peaks to get the best view of the fireworks lighting up the sky.

ALSO READ: Auckland Sky Lights Up With Spectacular Fireworks As New Zealand Rings In New Year | Watch

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