Cities across India glowed with festive lights on Christmas Eve, creating an enchanting ambience that brought communities together in celebration. Churches, markets, and public spaces were adorned with vibrant decorations, marking the joyous occasion of Christmas with grandeur.
Churches Set the Tone for Christmas Celebrations
Churches across the country were the epicentres of festive activities, with dazzling lights, sparkling stars, and meticulously arranged Christmas cribs. Special prayers and midnight masses drew large gatherings of devotees who reflected on the spirit of Christmas through hymns and carols.
- Kerala: The St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral in Ernakulam and St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral in Thiruvananthapuram hosted special prayers amidst breathtaking decorations.
- Tamil Nadu: The Santhome Cathedral Basilica in Chennai and the Thiru Iruthaya Andavar Church in Thoothukudi welcomed devotees for midnight mass. Drone visuals from Madurai’s St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral showcased a stunningly decorated structure.
- Goa: Panaji’s Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church sparkled with lights and Christmas cribs, embodying the state’s festive charm.
- Odisha: Midnight mass at Cuttack’s Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Cathedral brought the faithful together in prayer.
Markets and Public Spaces Overflow with Holiday Spirit
From bustling streets to tranquil prayer halls, the festive spirit was palpable:
- Delhi: Sacred Heart Cathedral hosted a spectacular celebration, while markets thrived with shoppers seeking Christmas gifts and decorations.
- Kolkata: Park Street came alive with twinkling lights and holiday cheer, drawing locals and tourists alike.
- Mumbai: Our Lady of Salvation Church and the Church of Our Lady of Victories offered a mix of solemn prayers and joyful carols.
- Rajasthan: Devotees gathered at St. Anselm Church in Ajmer for midnight mass.
Tourist Destinations Embrace the Festive Season
- Himachal Pradesh: Shimla’s Christ Church at the Ridge and snow-laden streets of Kullu-Manali attracted thousands of tourists reveling in the picturesque winter charm.
- Assam: Dispur’s Catholic Cathedral Church and Ranchi’s St. Mary’s Cathedral drew large crowds with their beautiful cribs and hymns.
- Tripura: Agartala’s Mariam Nagar Catholic Church was illuminated with radiant Christmas lights.
Unity in Celebration
From bustling metro cities to serene hill towns, Christmas celebrations in India demonstrated the nation’s ability to embrace the festive spirit in unity and diversity. As churches echoed with hymns and marketplaces buzzed with activity, the night before Christmas painted the country in hues of joy, reflection, and hope.