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1 , 9How did Christmas start in India?: Christmas celebration in India is associated with early Christian communities on the west coast and missionary activities during the colonial period. Over time, the festival evolved into a public occasion marked by church services, community gatherings, and regional traditions in the states. (Image: Canva)
2 , 9Midnight Mass attracts large congregations: According to PTI, churches across India held midnight mass prayers on Christmas Eve, with thousands of people attending in cities and small towns. Cathedrals in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi and Goa were reported to be packed with crowds as devotees gathered for prayers and carol singing. (Image: PTI)
3 , 9Santa Ride in New Delhi: Cyclists dressed as Santa Claus took to the city streets in New Delhi early in the morning, mixing festive fun with health and community spirit. The playful procession attracted crowds and cameras, adding an energetic twist to traditional festivities. The event reflected how Christmas in Indian cities often blends formal worship with vibrant public expression. (Image: PTI)
4 , 9Kolkata Lights, Cakes and Decorations: In Kolkata, bakeries were baking fruit cakes and markets were ablaze with Santa statues and garlands in preparations ahead of Christmas. Street vendors and shopkeepers displayed bright decorations and families lined up for festive gifts. The city’s Christmas mood blends the hustle and bustle of contemporary festive shopping with age-old customs. (Image: PTI)
5 , 9Greetings and goodwill from the leaders: Leaders across the country extended Christmas greetings emphasizing harmony, peace and compassion in their messages. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished citizens a Merry Christmas and expressed hope that the teachings of the festival will strengthen social unity and understanding. Such official messages underlined Christmas as a religious and cultural occasion. (Image: PTI)
6 , 9Mumbai’s festive glow: As Christmas approaches, Mumbai’s Bandra suburb comes alive with vibrant decorations, with churches and streets adorned with lights and stars. Families and youth gathered to enjoy the holiday atmosphere amidst crowds of choirs and outdoor performances. City celebrations combined spiritual reverence with lively public celebration. (Image: AP)
7 , 9Cakes, sweets and local flavors dominate the celebrations: Bakeries are working overtime due to increased demand for plum cakes and festive sweets ahead of Christmas. From Goan babinka to Kerala-style Christmas dishes, regional specialties featured prominently in the celebrations. (Representative image: Canva)
8 , 9festive celebrations in kochi: In Kochi, schools marked the season with music, drama and cultural programmes, highlighting community participation in Christmas celebrations. Students performed carols, nativity plays and dance acts, bringing youthful energy into the holiday mood. These events promoted a sense of togetherness and happiness before the winter break. (Image: PTI)
9 , 9Christmas as a shared cultural celebration: Christmas in India extends beyond the Christian community, with people of different religions joining in public celebrations. Hotels, malls and civic venues hosted Christmas-themed events, reflecting the wide cultural appeal of the festival. (Image: PTI)