Christmas

Christmas is a Christian festival globally observed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, a significant figure in Christianity and recognized by many as the Son of God. The occasion brings about unity, goodwill, and imbues the festive season with a sense of joy and generosity. Various customs including the exchange of gifts, feasting on special meals, attending midnight mass, and adorning one's home with Christmas specific decorations such as Christmas trees, lights and nativity scenes, are integral aspects of this celebration.

The inception of Christmas dates back over two millennia when the birth of Jesus was first recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. In India, a nation known for diversity in religion and culture, Christmas had its introduction with the establishment of the Christian faith, brought by Saint Thomas the Apostle in AD 52. It is noteworthy that Christmas celebrations in India reflect a unique blend of international customs infused with indigenous traditions from different parts of the country.

In India, Christmas is celebrated with much fervor on December 25th, similar to the rest of the world. Despite being a national holiday, the festivities often extend through the New Year, allowing the spirit of Christmas to resonate. Traditions include attending a mass at midnight, greeting each other with 'Merry Christmas', and indulging in a feast that often features a meld of Indian and Western delicacies. Decorations of mango and banana trees, along with the vibrant display of clay lanterns, highlight the Indian touch to this global observance. The festival not only holds religious importance for the Christian community in India but has gradually gathered acceptance and participation from people of varied religious backgrounds, reflecting the diversity and communal harmony prevalent in the country.