From fireworks to footfalls: World ushers in 2026 with grand celebrations

Millions across the globe bid farewell to 2025 and welcomed 2026 with fireworks, music, dance and tight security, as major Indian and global cities rang in the New Year at different hours.

The world welcomed 2026 with high spirits and large-scale celebrations, as millions of people across countries gathered on streets, public squares and entertainment hubs to mark the beginning of the New Year. As clocks struck midnight in different time zones, fireworks lit up the skies, music filled the air and crowds danced their way into 2026, bidding a cheerful goodbye to 2025.

In India, New Year celebrations were witnessed across major metropolitan cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Ranchi. Public places buzzed with excitement as young crowds celebrated to DJ music, while cityscapes glowed with decorative lighting. To ensure public safety, police forces were deployed in large numbers, with strict monitoring to prevent any untoward incidents. Authorities reported that celebrations remained largely peaceful.

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Across Karnataka, the festive mood reached its peak in several cities. Bengaluru and other key urban centres such as Hubballi, Dharwad, Shivamogga, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, Ballari and Belagavi saw enthusiastic participation from youngsters who welcomed the New Year by bursting crackers and celebrating with friends and family. Police departments across the state took preventive and precautionary measures, ensuring crowd control and smooth celebrations throughout the night.

Globally, the arrival of 2026 followed the time-zone sequence. According to Indian Standard Time, several countries welcomed the New Year earlier in the day. New Zealand ushered in 2026 at 3.30 pm IST, followed by Fiji at 4.30 pm, Australia at 5.30 pm, Japan at 6.30 pm, China at 8.30 pm, Thailand at 9.30 pm, Bangladesh at 10.30 pm, and Nepal at 11.45 pm. India and Sri Lanka welcomed the New Year at midnight, marking the final transition in the regional timeline.

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With celebrations spanning continents and cultures, 2026 began on a joyful note, uniting people worldwide in hope, festivity and togetherness.