Happy New Year 2025 Live Updates: Happy New Year! Revelers celebrate as India rings in 2025

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her team on the ISS will welcome 2025 with 16 sunrises and sunsets, extending their mission due to technical issues. They will celebrate with special meals, video calls with loved ones, and continue vital scientific research while in space.

Reflecting on significant global events of 2024: a devastating tsunami hit Japan, the EU approved an AI regulation, Narendra Modi secured a third term, Donald Trump returned to the White House despite assassination attempts, Syrian rebels ended Bashar al-Assad's rule, and the UK saw Labour topple Conservatives.

In 2024, global political landscapes saw dramatic changes with pivotal elections in prominent countries. Key highlights include India’s coalition government after a decade of BJP dominance, Trump’s return to White House in US, Labour’s UK victory, Sheikh Hasina's win and subsequent ouster Bangladesh, and reformist wins in Iran, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Taiwan, South Africa, and Indonesia.

The year 2024 has emerged as a pivotal period in Middle Eastern history, characterised by persistent conflicts and casualties. Whilst some Gulf nations maintained stability, numerous regions experienced continuous bombardment. Throughout this period, several influential figures were killed amidst ongoing hostilities. The year has been marked by substantial turmoil featuring intensifying conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, and notable geopolitical shifts across the Middle East.

Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election, overcoming legal challenges, an assassination attempt, and a divided Republican Party. His victory, despite various controversies and a struggling Democratic campaign led by Kamala Harris, marked a significant political resurgence and prompted global speculation about his second term.

Cities across India are gearing up for vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations with a mix of parties, cultural events, and strict security measures. Delhi will see 20,000 personnel ensuring safety at hotspots like Connaught Place and India Gate. Mumbai combines lively house parties with spiritual gatherings, while Kolkata offers fireworks and music across its neighborhoods. Noida is focused on responsible partying with breathalyzer checks, and Hyderabad promises a mix of glamour and tranquility. Bengaluru’s pubs will stay open late, and Chennai enforces beach restrictions but ensures celebrations continue across the city.

Gen Z's slang in 2024 saw terms like 'brain rot,' 'demure,' and 'manifest' become increasingly popular. Dictionaries highlighted these words, reflecting digital media's impact, societal trends, and polarisation. Notable mentions include 'brat,' 'rawdogging,' and 'kakistocracy,' capturing cultural shifts and anxieties, while 'lavender marriage' emerged as a unique relationship concept.

In 2024, Congress saw a mix of gains and setbacks. It increased its Lok Sabha seats to 99, aiding the INDIA bloc's challenge to the BJP, which retained power with 293 seats. Despite successes in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, Congress faced defeats in Bihar, Maharashtra, and other states, highlighting challenges in its bid for political resurgence.

A geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the northern lights into view across the northern US on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. The phenomenon, caused by solar particles hitting Earth's atmosphere, will be visible in parts of northern states from Alaska to Maine.

Over 30 professionals of Indian heritage receive New Year Honours for significant contributions in healthcare, education, public service, and more. Key figures include MP Ranil Jayawardena and former football manager Gareth Southgate, highlighting diversity and inclusion with 12% of recipients from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Google has created a New Year's Eve Doodle showcasing an animated clock counting down to 2025. This Doodle reflects the celebratory spirit of New Year's Eve, urging people to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the coming year, uniting different cultures in the excitement of welcoming a new beginning.

As 2025 approaches, global excitement builds for New Year's Eve fireworks. Major cities like Sydney, Hong Kong, London, and Dubai plan spectacular displays. With streaming options available, viewers can enjoy the dazzling shows from home. Notable events include Sydney's largest-ever display, fireworks over Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour, London Eye's backdrop, and Dubai's Burj Khalifa light show.

Ahmedabad police will implement a 24/7 surveillance operation targeting approximately 2,000 known bootleggers this New Year's Eve. Officers will actively monitor and follow these individuals to prevent the illegal sale and distribution of liquor, aiming to cut off the supply at its source and enforce prohibition more effectively.