Hyderabad Rings In 2026 with Midnight Cheers, Morning Prayers

Hyderabad: The city welcomed New Year with crackers, with joyous shouts, prayers, ringing of church bells and, in the din, moments of quiet meditation.

Several organisations marked the occasion with sapling plantation drives to promote environmental awareness, while fitness enthusiasts began the year by heading to gyms and workout centres, pledging to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

While large-scale parties were held across the city, many people opted for safer, private celebrations. Billa Shiva Reddy said he chose a terrace party with family and friends. “It is safer, everyone is together, and there is no risk of travelling after drinking. Many relatives and friends stayed back,” he said.

Preeti Biyani, a resident of Suchitra, said her family celebrated with close relatives. “It was just cousins this time, away from the usual crowds. Starting the year with family felt special,” she said.

City roads remained busy till around 2 am as people travelled across Hyderabad celebrating the occasion. Abids police station house officer S.A. Emmanuel said revellers were well behaved and cooperative. “People were in a celebratory spirit and even wished police personnel a Happy New Year, thanking them for ensuring safety and security,” he said.

Hotels and eateries reported brisk business. Restaurants were jam packed, with waiting times exceeding an hour. A city-based hotelier said sales were nearly four times higher on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with large takeaway orders placed for private parties.

Religious places witnessed a large turnout of devotees who chose to welcome the New Year in a spiritual manner. At the Hare Krishna Golden Temple, elaborate arrangements were made to facilitate darshan of thousands of devotees who sought blessings of Sri Sri Radha Govinda and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. Harika Yadav of Bolaram said her family visited the Ayyappa Swamy temple early in the morning. “Starting the year with divine blessings is the best way,” she said.

Churches across the city held Watch Night services. At VST Function Hall, Rev Dr Joy Cherian delivered the New Year message, attended by thousands of faithful. The Lord’s Church organised a worship conference at LB Stadium, which began at 3 pm on December 31 and concluded at 1 am on New Year’s Day, drawing over 25,000 believers. Rev. Dr Raj Prakash Paul delivered the message, outlining seven principles for entering the New Year. Catholic churches were also packed for the midnight vigil Holy Mass.