People welcome 2008 with zest

People across India greeted each other and welcomed New Year with great zeal and fervour late on Monday night.

New Delhi/Chennai/Jaipur, Jan 1 : People across India greeted each other and welcomed New Year with great zeal and fervour late on Monday night.

In New Delhi, enthusiasts came out in large numbers, braving the winter chill, to ring in the New Year.The Capital was abuzz with activity as both young and old took part in the festivities with gaiety.

"My New Year resolution is to do at least one good thing a day so that I too can earn some good blessings from all the elders around me," said Rohit Chopra.

While for some, the onset of 2008 meant a lot of hard work, for many others, it took on a philanthropic note.

"I think this New Year, I would like to work harder as per my boss' instructions and give lesser excuses," said Supratik.

Chennai was adorned with colours and lights to welcome the New Year. At midnight, people welcomed the New Year with hope and enthusiasm and prayed for a better future.

The festive and frenzy mood of people was most palpable in Goa. The state has been in fact, swamped with visitors and tourists for the past few days.

The chilling cold failed to abate the New Year celebrations in Chandigarh. People greeted each other and danced till late night.

Celebrations in Rajasthan were special as the common man ushered in the New Year with gaiety.

Meanwhile, tribals in Uttar Pradesh's Sonebhadra District prepared goodies and danced to the drumbeats to usher in the New Year.

Even low winter mercury levels failed to dampen the spirit of the revellers as the festive spirit soared high and Indians rang in 2008 with great passion and fervour.

ANI