Hyderabad Glows with Christmas Cheer
Hyderabad lit up with joy and celebration on Christmas Eve as churches and chapels across the city embraced the festive spirit. Twinkling lights, Santa Claus figurines, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees adorned many places of worship, creating a magical atmosphere for the holiday season.
Several churches set up intricate tableaus depicting the birth of Jesus Christ, a tradition that drew crowds of visitors. On Tuesday evening, people gathered in large numbers to attend midnight mass, a cherished part of the Christmas celebration. Adding to the festive spirit, various voluntary organisations hosted pre-Christmas events in old age homes and orphanages, spreading joy to those in need.
Prominent churches like St Joseph’s Cathedral in Gunfoundry, St Mary’s Church in Secunderabad, St Anthony’s Church in Lakdikapul, and Wesley Church in Secunderabad saw massive turnouts. Devotees offered prayers, lit candles, and admired the dazzling decorations. Towering Christmas trees at the entrances added to the charm, making the celebrations even more special.
The festivities will continue until the end of the year, concluding with a vigil mass on December 31. Robert Frank, an IT employee, shared his experience, saying, “For us, Christmas is a month-long celebration. It begins with carol singing on the first Sunday of December. We start food preparations a week or two before Christmas and continue until New Year.”
As a member of the choir group at St Mary’s Church, Robert explained how they spread joy by visiting parishioners’ homes to sing carols. “After singing, we exchange greetings and sweets with the households. It’s a heartwarming tradition that strengthens the festive spirit,” he said, reflecting the warmth and togetherness that define the season.
