Uncertainty surrounds new-year celebrations

Tomorrow is the last day of 2016, and in the ordinary scheme of things, one would be looking forward to celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends and family and jotting down plans of where and how to party. Christmas break is on for most colleges and weekend means a good time to unwind. However, demonetisation and strict regulations are dampening the festive spirit. AT takes stock of the situation…Downsizing, cancelling partiesThe norms about timings and security prevail as usual for public parties but many organisers are anticipating very strict checking and restrictions. “Last year we entertained 3000 guests for the new year party, this time around I am guessing there will be a 50 percent drop. So, we have downsized the arrangements and instead of having a lavish theme party we are keeping it simple,” says Manish Shah, entertainment chairman of a city club. He adds that since not too many private parties are happening, they might even see a higher crowd turn out than expected. Hardik Varia, an event organiser says, “This year I decided not to organize any new year party because demonetisation has played a spoil sport.”Strict regulationsMany organisers are worried and are seeking clarity about new rules and regulations announced by the government. “We were prepared for a smaller crowd due to demonetisation and have made arrangements for cashless payment. Most of my booking till now are those of families. But the problem now is new regulations. Metal detectors are a must and entertainment tax is also justified. We are seeking clarity on the time limit, licenses required and breath analysers. We are hearing new things every day and hope the situation gets sorted out soon,” says Raj Soni, an event organiser. Actor Hemang Dave has collaborated with some organisers to hold a new year bash in GMDC ground. “We have invited local celebrities on board so guests can interact with them. However, with so many new do’s and don’ts, we were in two minds about whether to continue or cancel,” he says. Go big or go homeMany Amdavadis choose to spend the new year’s eve at parties in the bigger hotels. Some of these also provide a package where in you can check in on December 31 and check out on January 1.“There will be food, beverages, music and dance. We have a lot of inquiries maybe because people consider it to be the safest option as five star hotels already have the permits required. We are a dry state and have to respect that,” says DJ Nihar who is organising parties at two hotels in the city. He says they have sold about 600 tickets so far. Many youngsters are preferring to go out of the city or stay at home as public parties means a lot of hassles. Surbhi Goyal, an architect, says, “I am planning to go to Mt. Abu with some friends but if that does not work out we’ll just stay at home.” Marketing professional Kosha Shah agrees. “I am just going to stay in with some close friends and avoid the hassle of going out.”