Lucknow, Jan 26 (IANS): Overnight rains here in Uttar Pradesh played spoilsport Monday as the Republic Day festivities were delayed by a few hours at many places.

Officials said arrangements were made to ensure that the rains did not hit the main parade at the Vidhan Sabha Marg. But events to mark the 66th Republic Day were hit as participants could not reach for functions at various schools on time, organisers told IANS.

The tableau which was part of the main parade was drenched and early morning organizers were spotted running to ensure that the damage was taken care of.

Amrendra Senger, responsible for one such tableau parked near the Charbagh railway station said, said some of it was damaged in the overnight rains and they were trying to repair it.

District officials who have made elaborate arrangements for the parade said they hoped the sky would clear by the time the parade started.

They also expressed hope that the rains would not deter the crowds from coming to attend the celebrations.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav and other dignitaries are likely to be present at the Vidhan Sabha to witness the grand parade.