Wet blanket plays poolside party pooper

CHENNAI: Cyclone Thane has thrown the proverbial spanner in the works of party organisers, as New Year’s Eve revellers in Chennai have been forced to make changes to their Saturday party plans. Private party organisers and hotels are making last-minute changes and shifting parties from sprawling lawns and poolsides to banquet halls.Even as Cyclone Thane is slated to hit land late on Thursday night, its after-effects, according to Meteorological department records, will last two more days. Early forecasts from the department suggest that by New Year’s Eve, Thane would have weakened into a low-pressure area but would continue to cause rains in the State.Fearing rains, several leading hotels and watering holes in the city that have been advertising about wild parties under the sky, are rethinking their plans and keeping back-up options ready. At Raintree on Anna Salai, bookings aren’t being made for the two premium parties planned at the venue — the DJ party at the High Sky Lounge, and the Punjabi dinner at Up North rooftop sky view restaurant. “Bookings for New Year’s Eve events organised at the two venues will open only on December 31, subject to weather conditions,” says Rakesh, banquet manager.