Activists take midnight dip in ice-cold water in Shillong

Shillong: Activists in Meghalaya welcomed 2024 by diving into a pool of water filled with 1 ton of ice blocks, resolving to fight social ills that plague the state. A total of 26 people, including four women, dived into the Crinoline swimming pool in Shillong at midnight, keeping up with the tradition that has been continuing for 26 years.Former students' activist Michael Syiem, who is the convener of the Mait Shaphrang Movement, has been at the forefront of organising the event for years. “The midnight dip is a sober celebration which has more to do with determination and strengthening of the inner self to face the challenges of life,” he said.A similar custom of midnight swim to welcome the new year is also prevalent in Argentina and some parts of Russia, participants said.Meanwhile, as part of the Cherry Blossom Festival, American rapper Sean Kingston performed at the Polo grounds with revellers dancing to the beats till early morning. PTI

Trains honk at midnight to mark New Year 2024 at Mumbai's CST station

The iconic CST station in Mumbai celebrated the New Year with a synchronized honking event, organized by railway enthusiasts. Commuters, bystanders, and railway staff gathered to witness the auditory experience as trains at the station and rail car sheds joined forces in unison. Passengers aboard stationary trains cheered and clapped, adding to the joyous atmosphere. This tradition has grown over the years and has become a symbol of collective celebration and the enduring spirit of Mumbai.

NY revelry to end by midnight

Hotels in Hubballi are gearing up for grand New Year celebrations despite the lingering threat of Covid-19. Many hotels are planning memorable events with unique themes, ensuring comprehensive safety measures for attendees. Some hotels have decided not to hold any grand events following Covid threats and strict guidelines issued by the city police. The police have instructed hoteliers to end the music events by 10 pm and wrap up all activities by midnight, with an additional 30-minute extension given to avoid inconvenience.

Midnight rave party busted in Maharashtra, 95 revellers held

Police busted a rave party in an isolated stretch in Thane's Kasarwadavli creek, detaining 95 revellers, including five women, and arresting the two organisers. The party involved the consumption of drugs and intoxicants, with small quantities of LSD, charas, ecstasy pills, and motorbikes seized. The organisers, Tejas Kubal and Sujal Mahajan, had posted an invite on social media, attracting youngsters from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane. The police conducted the raid based on a tipoff and sent a decoy customer before taking action.