New Delhi: India came alive with the spirit of Christmas on Wednesday as millions of devotees gathered in churches across the country to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with midnight masses, carol singing, and prayers for peace and joy.
In the national capital, historic churches such as Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gol Dakhana, St Columba’s Church, and the Cathedral Church of the ipacked from early evening. Families, dressed in their festive attire, lit candles, sang traditional hymns, and listened to sermons that emphasised love, forgiveness, and hope. People from all faiths joined Delhi’s Christian community, reflecting the country’s secular ethos.
Goa, often called India’s Christmas capital, saw grand celebrations with the iconic Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral in Old Goa drawing large crowds for midnight services. The state’s streets were adorned with fairy lights, cribs, and traditional Portuguese-style decorations, while locals and tourists enjoyed midnight feasts featuring pork vindaloo, sorpotel, and bebinca.
In Mumbai, St Thomas Cathedral and Mount Mary Basilica hosted special services, while Kolkata’s St Paul’s Cathedral and Park Street glittered with festive lights and live carol performances. In Kerala, which has one of the largest Christian populations, churches in Kochi, Thrissur, and Kottayam overflowed with worshippers.
Security was tight at major churches nationwide, with police and rapid response teams deployed to ensure peaceful celebrations. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm Christmas greetings, urging citizens to spread kindness and unity.
As the nation embraces the festive season, Christmas in India once again showcases its characteristic combination of faith, tradition, and communal harmony.