The coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi in Karnataka are buzzing with preparations to welcome the New Year, with a multitude of indoor, outdoor, and private house parties planned across the region. This festive fervour comes even as the local police have issued specific guidelines to regulate the celebrations.
Adapting to Restrictions: Open-Air Venues Take Centre Stage
Despite restrictions that include limits on amplified music, especially DJ systems, several open-air events and parties at popular venues are scheduled for New Year's Eve. Organisers report that the city is hosting more events this year compared to the previous year, attributing this surge to early clarity on official regulations.
Food blogger and event organiser Laxmi Shenoy highlighted that the advance announcement of restrictions actually aided in better planning. "Events are being strategically planned at open venues such as beaches, riverbanks, and other outdoor spaces," she said. Shenoy added that despite the limitations, the public's desire to celebrate remains strong, and they have found innovative ways to adapt.
Echoing this sentiment, Mark Fernandes of Stonebridge Entertainment, which is organising one of the largest outdoor events near the Maravoor Bridge, stated that obtaining necessary licences was a smoother process this year. "There are definite restrictions, but revellers are still keen to welcome the New Year with music and fun," Fernandes noted.
DJ Ban Dampens Spirits for Some, Fuels Private Parties
However, the restrictions have not been universally accepted. Some hotels and event managers have decided to forgo celebrations altogether, citing the ban on DJ music as a deal-breaker. The head of a prominent hotel chain explained their decision: "There is a ban on DJ music, and for many guests, that is central to the celebrations. After several years, we have decided not to host an event this time."
This shift, coupled with a massive influx of tourists, has led to a significant rise in private house parties. Hotels and homestays in the coastal region are reporting full occupancy for the year-end period. With accommodation running out, many visitors and locals are opting for more intimate, private gatherings.
A stakeholder from the tourism industry provided insight into the tourist surge: "A sizeable number of people who usually travel to Goa for New Year celebrations chose not to go this year due to recent incidents and restrictions there." This diversion has directly benefited the coastal districts of Karnataka.
Economic Ripple Effect: Liquor Sales and Celebratory Mood
The Excise Department is anticipating a corresponding spike in liquor sales, aligning with the increased number of planned parties across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi. The overall atmosphere points towards a vibrant, albeit regulated, New Year's Eve, with the coastal community and visitors finding a balance between celebration and compliance.
The scenario presents a mixed bag: while organised large-scale events with DJs are fewer, the spirit of celebration has moved to open beaches, riverbanks, and private homes, ensuring the coastal belt rings in 2024 with considerable enthusiasm.
