HYDERABAD, JAN 1   :    Special prayers in temples and churches, lively parties, and vibrant cultural events marked the ushering of the New Year 2024 in Hyderabad, its twin Secunderabad, and various parts of Telangana on Monday.

Devotees thronged temples to offer special poojas, embracing the New Year with spiritual fervour. Meanwhile, churches organised special New Year’s Eve services to welcome the arrival of 2024.
Residents of several colonies and apartments hosted events filled with dance and music, while many celebrated by cutting cakes in anticipation of the New Year.
Private clubs and hotels organised dances and other events, adhering to Covid19 restrictions imposed by the police to curb the spread of the virus and the new JN1 variant.

Many revellers were spotted at the picturesque Tank Bund in the city until late Sunday night.
Shops selling cakes and liquor experienced brisk business, with long queues outside liquor outlets.
To ensure public safety, a large number of police personnel were deployed on the main roads to monitor and prevent drunken driving in the city.

Reports of New Year celebrations have also surfaced from major towns across the state.
Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundarajan and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy extended their New Year greetings to the people.(UNI)