For popular actress Reba Monica John, the festive season of Christmas holds a uniquely special place in her heart. She describes it as her absolute favourite time of the year, filled with nostalgia and joy rooted deeply in her childhood.
Childhood Memories and Convent School Roots
Reba's love for Christmas began during her school days. Having studied in a convent school, the celebrations were always a significant part of her upbringing. She recalls the excitement building up long before December even arrived. "As soon as we enter the month of November, we start our countdown to Christmas," Reba shares. The first day of December marks the official start of festivities, with the family ready to put up the star and decorate their home.
The actress fondly remembers a long list of things she looked forward to each year. This included joyful carol singing, a special Christmas dinner prepared by her mother before attending church service, delicious plum cakes, the distinct fragrance of wine, and the entire process of decorating the house and setting up the Christmas tree with her siblings. Shopping for gifts and finding the best plum cake in town to share with friends and family were also integral parts of her holiday routine.
Family, Faith, and Caroling Traditions
Family has always been central to Reba's Christmas celebrations. In her younger years, the holidays meant trips to Kerala to meet cousins and spend precious time with grandparents. After her grandparents passed away, the celebrations became more focused on the immediate family, yet the essence of spirituality, togetherness, and celebration remained strong.
An active participant in her church choir while growing up, Reba always anticipated the choir practices and the honour of singing during the Christmas mass. Her carolling memories are particularly vivid. As a Syrian Catholic attending a Latin Church in Bangalore, she notes that the tradition of visiting homes was more common in her native community. "I remember going to homes, singing carols and praying at people’s houses… and eating great food at the places we visited," she shares with a smile.
The Universal Spirit of Christmas Joy
For Reba Monica John, the message of Christmas beautifully transcends religious boundaries. She observes that the festival brings people together in a shared spirit of joy and unity. Whether it's hosting a party at home, visiting friends and family, simply putting up a tree, listening to festive music, or watching a Christmas movie with loved ones, the core sentiment remains the same.
"It’s the spirit of joy and togetherness that Christmas brings," Reba emphasizes. She believes the festival is a beautiful time to love, laugh, enjoy great food, and celebrate the bonds that bring people closer, making it a universally cherished occasion across India and beyond.
