New Year by many names, fests unite Ahmedabad

AHMEDABAD: Though orange alert had been issued for Ahmedabad, feast, festivities, and high spirits marked regional New Year celebrations in the city. While Malayalis celebrated Vishu, Bengalis marked Pohela Boishakh with the greeting of "Shubho Noboborsho". Hundreds of people from various parts of India who call Ahmedabad their home rang in their New Year festivities with gusto.
"After the Vishukkani ritual, we savoured some traditional preparations from our home state.We met friends and family and celebrated at home," said Sreedhu Nair, a Vejalpur resident. "Over the weekend, I look forward to enjoying the Vishu Sadhya at one of the hotels in the city."

The Bengalis' cheer too was undimmed by the heat. "I will visit my parents in Vadodara for the New Year," said Surabhi Bose, a professional. "As such, it's a long weekend in Ahmedabad and I will get to meet my parents and extended family and relish some dishes my mom will make."
Preparations are also underway for grand celebrations at Hanuman temples in Ahmedabad for Hanuman Jayanti on Saturday. On Friday, the Christian community of the city observed Good Friday with fasting and prayers.