Doon from a vantage point: Hot air balloon rides a hit at this city carnival

From hot air balloon, clowns, a fashion show and cartoon characters to a host of competitions like battle of bands, dance competition, kite-flying competition and food festival, Doonites saw it all at this carnival held recently in the city. The three-day event that kick-started on January 26 had something for people from every age bracket.
HAIR-RAISING! (BCCL/ Shikhar Dua)
'Doon looks more beautiful from the sky'
Priyanshu, a BTech student from Raipur, who took a hot air balloon ride, said, "Flying amid the mountains was an ethereal experience.The mountains and rivers of Doon look beautiful from the sky. I have done a hot air balloon ride in Delhi but the view that one witnesses in Doon has no comparison."
A blend of desi-videshi music genres
A number of groups participated in the dance competition (BCCL/Shikhar Dua)
More than 10 local music bands and many dance groups battled it out at the competitions held at the carnival. Shivang, a music lover from Rajpur Road, said, "I have never seen so many bands performing on one stage in Doon. From international numbers to desi hits, the bands played music of different genres. I loved the performance by Auchitya band and the dance performances were entertaining too."
A number of groups participated in the dance competition (BCCL/Shikhar Dua)
'While fairs and exhibitions are common in Doon, this carnival was unique'
Salman, a resident of Dalanwala, said, "This carnival reminded me of the first carnival I had ever attended in Mumbai. While I often visit fairs and exhibitions in the city, a carnival of this kind was unique for Doon. We clicked a lot of pictures with clowns, juggler and other characters. It was a day full of fun and frolic."
DANCE IT OFF! (BCCL/Shikhar Dua)
'It was a perfect weekend getaway'
IT's A FUNNY WORLD (BCCL/Shikhar Dua)
The carnival had more than 50 stalls offering food and other products. Prateek, a food stall owner, said, "We got a good response from the crowd. I wish more such carnivals are organised in Doon." Sanjeevni, a writer from Ballupur, said, "It was a perfect weekend getaway. From shopping and taking a ride on a hot air balloon to sampling different delicacies. I enjoyed a lot."
Audience cheering for the participants (BCCL/ Shikhar Dua)