Gujaratis celebrate new year

Ahmedabad, Oct 19 : The Gujarati diaspora today celebrated the new year-first day of Vikram Samvat 2066-with pomp and show wishing prosperity and good health to their kith and kin.

Since early this morning, people ushered in the new year bursting fire crackers and lighting traditional lamps in their houses. Alms seekers, many beating the drums, were aplenty at every door step as Gujaratis display their generosity on this day.

A holiday mood prevailed in the main markets and business centres as most traders kept their establishments closed since Diwali and many proceeding for outings with family.

It is a 21-day holiday for all school students as the educational institutions will open after November 5 only. Most newspapers are also observing two-day holiday.

In a departure from their daily routine, Governor S C Jamir and Chief Minister Narendra Modi spared few hours to meet officers and common people and to exchange greetings.

In a new gesture to display, the people-friendly approach, the rank and file of Gujarat police, led by Director General S S Khandwavala, visited many localities and presented roses and sweets to the common people. Mr Khandwavala visited few localities in the city.

--UNI

(c) 2009 Published with permission from United News of India.
Unauthorised publication of any content from NewKerala.Com is prohibited