Mysuru welcomed the New Year with a dazzling display of fireworks at the iconic palace. This may become a permanent feature here in the coming years and will put Mysuru in the league of cities such as Sydney and New York, where fireworks light up the landmark monuments every New Year’s eve.
Braving the chilly weather, people headed towards the Jayamartanda Gate to get a vantage view of the illuminated palace in the background and the fireworks in the foreground. As the count -down began, 100,000 bulbs lit up the palace, followed by the grand display of fireworks.
Cultural programmes were also held. The fireworks lasted about 5 to 7 minutes, but the palace was illuminated for 15 minutes.
The district administration and the Palace Board had also organised a flower show in the run up to the New Year and there were a slew of classical and semi-classical cultural programmes followed by a performance by the famed Mysuru Police Band.
For a city which is not known for any vibrant night life, New Year celebrations has been all about food and drinks in closed environs of hotels. But, this initiative brought the people outdoors.
