One of the present day fads amongst the list of things done as a part of Pseudo westernization is the so called New Year Bash to welcome the New Year. Year after year the events are sequenced differently to make it seem new and appealing.

The commonalities being jarring music, a few leg shaking exercises (sorry, I cannot accept it as dancing) to the DJ Music, heavy and greasy meal, sarcasm in the name of humor. What peeves me most are the games and contests like- Best dressed person which makes most guests conscious about themselves as they are indirectly recruited for the various contests and are kept under pressure which prevents them from enjoying the evening.

It would be heartening if the New year bashers are doing it out of interest and do not feel monotonous going over the events like a ritual year after year, but a section definitely hangs around in these places as a reply to the question thrown at them- 'What are you going to do this New year eve?', making it seem that ones who are not out screaming and leg shaking are some outcasts!

Please indulge in merry making if it makes you happy but do not be a part of such a bash out of compulsion.

Let us this year resolve to do things in life out of choice or happiness and not out of compulsion, searching for happiness!