The world welcomed 2025 with vibrant celebrations, from New Zealand’s stunning fireworks to Sydney’s iconic harbour display. In India, grand festivities unfolded across cities, with cultural programmes, prayers, and dazzling illuminations marking the joyous occasion. Amidst the global countdown, diverse traditions and exuberance defined the arrival of a hopeful new year.
News Arena Network - New Delhi - UPDATED: January 1, 2025, 01:06 PM - 2 min read
People celebrate on the eve of the new year 2025, in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024.
As the clock struck midnight, the world united in jubilant celebrations to usher in 2025. From New Zealand’s first countdown to festivities across India, Australia, and Japan, the arrival of the new year was marked by vibrant displays of culture, prayers, and cheer.
In India, celebrations reflected the nation’s diversity, as people thronged public spaces and religious sites.
In New Delhi, thousands gathered at India Gate, which was illuminated with dazzling lights, while Connaught Place hosted lively countdown events. “The atmosphere was electrifying,” remarked Ananya Sharma, a participant in the New Year’s Eve festivities.
Mumbai’s hotspots, including Marine Drive, the Gateway of India, and Bandra-Worli Sea Link, saw massive turnouts. Revellers enjoyed music, dance, and fireworks, capturing memories amidst the cool winter breeze.
In Kerala, Mananchira Square in Kozhikode witnessed vibrant cultural events, while in Nagpur, locals celebrated with traditional ‘deepotsav’, lighting earthen lamps to welcome the new year.
Smaller towns and villages joined the festivities with local traditions, dances, and community gatherings, highlighting India’s cultural richness.
Chennai: People take part in celebrations on the eve of new year 2025, at Marina Beach in Chennai on Tuesday.
People during celebrations on the eve of the new year 2025, at Carter Road in Mumbai.
Australia and the Pacific lead the countdown
New Zealand led the world into 2025, with Auckland’s Sky Tower hosting a breathtaking fireworks display. “It was magical,” said a visitor, describing the vibrant colours lighting up the skyline.
In Australia, Sydney’s harbour drew hundreds of thousands to witness its iconic fireworks. The celebrations included a singalong led by British pop icon Robbie Williams, accompanied by indigenous ceremonies honouring Australia’s First Nations people. Melbourne’s Yarra River also sparkled with vibrant displays, delighting attendees.
Fireworks explode over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Sydney.
Asia’s grand welcome
Japan embraced 2025 with its traditional ‘Joya no Kane’ ritual, where temple bells chimed 108 times to symbolise purification. In Tokyo, projection mappings on skyscrapers added a modern twist to the celebrations.
China’s capital, Beijing, saw crowds gather at Shougang Park for dazzling displays, while Thailand’s Bangkok combined performances with stunning fireworks. The Philippines and South Korea also joined the festivities, though South Korea’s celebrations were subdued following a tragic air crash in Muan.
Dubai’s extravaganza
Dubai’s Burj Khalifa was the centrepiece of its New Year festivities, with thousands gathering to witness the annual fireworks spectacle. The display, set against the iconic skyscraper, symbolised the UAE’s grandeur and global appeal.
In Israel, the mood was reflective amidst ongoing conflict, while Italy’s Rome prepared for Pope Francis’ Holy Year, drawing pilgrims to the Eternal City. London and Paris staged their signature fireworks displays, with London’s River Thames and Paris’ Champs-Élysées as focal points.
Spectacular fireworks light up the Burj Khalifa, celebrating the New Year in dazzling style
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