Revellers dodge crowded clubs, head outdoors to ring in 2016

PUNE: New Year's Eve beckons a splendid celebration and Puneites are making grand plans to head out of town for exclusive and laid-back gatherings.
Rajrishi Ganguly, who works with a multinational company in the city, is in no mood to step over toes as he makes his way through a nightclub. He has already chosen an elite New Year's Eve party comprising a mere 80-90 guests at a lounge.Clearly, 'comfort' is his first priority.
"I have had bad experiences in the past. On New Year's Eve, city clubs become very crowded. You have to wait for hours to get a table. Sometimes people misbehave after getting drunk. I wanted to avoid last-minute chaos this year. Shelling out a little more money for a New Year's Eve party is no big deal. At least, one can be comfortable without haggling for a table and drinks," said Ganguly. The right ambience and a decent crowd can make or break a party, he added.
The excessive commercialisation at nightclubs is a big turn-off for Siddharth Lohakpure, an event manager. Along with 23 like-minded friends, Lohakpure has rented a 3BHK bungalow in Lonavla to welcome the New Year in style. From a cook to music and drinks, everything has been handpicked for the private house party.
"One of our own friends will take over the DJ's console. I will bring the music system. We have decided to get to the venue before 9 pm on December 30 so we can take care of last minute details. We are even planning to set up a nice bonfire. A house party is more economical than going out to nightclubs," Lohakpure point out.
In fact, he says, going out on New Year's Eve has become a trend in recent times. "Just a few years ago, it wasn't a big deal if you didn't head to a nightclub on New Year's Eve. Instead, people would gather at a friend's place and celebrations would begin. Clubbing on December 31 is a new trend and that is why nightclubs charge such a hefty entrance fee. Even after you get into the club, the food and drinks are limited and the wait is endless. In a house party, one has the luxury of picking food and drinks that suit our taste buds," adds Lohakpure.
Having a place in Aamby Valley has come handy for Disha Khinvasara, an entrepreneur. "Partying outside the city leaves you free from worrying about traffic. The holiday mood soon sinks in. One is not bounded by time restrictions," says Khinvasara.
Although the deadline for restaurants and clubs has been relaxed, Ryan Dias, a third year MCA student, has chosen Goa over Pune. He is heading to Palolem beach to usher in the New Year. "In Goa, there are fewer restrictions. Moreover, one gets a wide variety of food, drinks and music. Plus, the crowd is more cosmopolitan," said Dias, a student.
Others have chosen their party spots in secluded and 'untapped' pockets of the city. Property consultant Aman Shetty wants to party overnight but amidst nature. He is heading to a resort located 22 km from Kothrud. Staying in comfortable tents and partying under the open sky is, essentially, chaos free, says Shetty. "What's more, the event manager is taking care of every detail. We did not have to plan anything. A variety of music genre is another attraction at the party," he said.
While most people are busy making special plans, some have decided to remain in the city and head to their favourite nightclubs and restaurant. A regular at a city restaurant, Asa Ferreira is thrilled about the DJ playing on New Year's Eve. The party's theme 'Midnight Masquerade' is another attraction.
"I have never faced any parking issue here. Infrastructure-wise, it's a great place. You always get a table here and the security is also an added bonus,'' said Ferreira.
BOX:
New Year Resolutions: mostly the usual
Disha Khinvasara (30), entrepreneur: I want to hit the gym regularly and get back into shape.
Gurdeep Chaudhary (27), architect: I would like to read all the books in Game of Throne series by George R R Martin
Siddharth Lohakpure (33), event manager: I want to learn at least three Italian cuisines
Aman Shetty (27), property consultant: I will bring more punctuality and discipline in my lifestyle
Eom/dipti