Meghalaya celebrates New Year

Shillong, Jan 1 (UNI) Thousands of Shillongites surged onto the streets and ushered the New Year with colourful fireworks, while a few swimmers plunged into freezing rivers to celebrate the occasion.

People took part in an open-air concert 'Live and Let Live' at Khyndai-Lad, in downtown Shillong.

US-based Difference United and other popular local bands Colours, Akhia, Snowhite, Gracyl Ropmay, Christine Pyngrope and Rana Kharkongor performed in the concert.

At the stroke of midnight, fireworks went off amidst a cheering crowd, who had gathered there to welcome the new year.

Over a thousand couple sashayed at the Jawaharlal Nehru Sports' Complex to attend DJs night.

Away from the city centre, a group of swimmers plunged into the icy Sangmein River at Upper Shillong at the stroke of midnight.

Emerging from the freezing cold water Michael Syiem muttered that he felt ''refreshed''.

In other parts of the state, similar New Year celebrations were being held.

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