New Delhi, Dec 25 (UNI) Christmas is being celebrated across the country with devotion and enthusiasm, as churches echoed with hymns and prayers and streets lit up with festive decorations, reflecting a spirit of harmony and togetherness.
From the northeastern states to the national capital and coastal regions, people from different faiths joined in the celebrations to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. Midnight Masses, special prayer services, and community gatherings were organised, drawing large numbers of devotees and visitors.
In Assam, preparations peaked across districts such as Goalpara and towns like Haflong and Guwahati, where homes, shops, and churches were illuminated with decorative lights.
Villages and towns witnessed a unique blending of cultures, with families across ethnic and linguistic backgrounds taking part in the festivities. Markets bustled with shoppers buying stars, wreaths, winter wear, and gifts, adding to the seasonal cheer.
Similar scenes were observed in Shillong, Meghalaya, where the city glowed with lights and music, further boosting its appeal as a popular Christmas and New Year destination.
In the national capital, large crowds gathered at churches, including the Sacred Heart Cathedral near Connaught Place, to attend special prayers and the midnight Mass. Children dressed as Santa Claus, a towering Christmas tree, and elaborate lighting added to the festive atmosphere. Security arrangements were stepped up in high-footfall areas to ensure smooth celebrations, as people from all walks of life thronged churches to offer prayers and exchange greetings.
Goa, known for its vibrant Christmas traditions, also witnessed elaborate celebrations. Streets across Old Goa, Panaji, Margao, and Vasco were illuminated with stars and festive lights, while families prepared traditional sweets and cakes. The celebrations extended beyond homes and churches, with people visiting neighbours, relatives, and old-age homes, reinforcing the message of compassion and sharing associated with the festival.
Adding a unique artistic touch to the celebrations, renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik unveiled a striking Santa Claus sculpture at Puri, crafted using 1.5 tonnes of apples blended with sand. The installation was created as part of an attempt to set a world record for the largest Santa Claus sculpture made with apples, drawing attention from visitors and spreading festive cheer along the coast.
Christmas is observed every year on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and is celebrated worldwide as a festival of hope, peace, forgiveness, and love. While deeply significant for Christians, the festival has evolved into a broader cultural celebration, transcending religious boundaries.
Historically, Christmas reflects a blend of Christian beliefs and ancient winter traditions. Although the Bible does not specify the exact date of Jesus Christ’s birth, December 25 was chosen by early Christians to align with existing winter festivals, helping the message of Christianity reach wider communities.
Today, the festival continues to unite people across regions and cultures, reinforcing values of goodwill, harmony, and shared joy.
India marks Christmas with prayers, unity, festive cheer
