Churches across Hyderabad witnessed a remarkable influx of devotees and visitors on Thursday as the Christian community celebrated Christmas, with a significant participation from people of other faiths adding to the festive spirit.
A Day of Prayers, Carols, and Inclusivity
The celebrations spanned the entire day, from special early-morning prayers to the traditional midnight Mass. Neighbourhood churches resonated with hymns, Christmas carols, and messages emphasising peace and goodwill. The church premises were beautifully adorned with fairy lights, stars, and elaborate nativity scenes, creating a mesmerising visual spectacle. Choirs performed traditional carols, enhancing the joyous atmosphere that began on Christmas Eve and is scheduled to continue through the weekend with family gatherings and special church services.
Spirit of Shared Humanity Beyond Religion
A notable aspect of this year's observance was the strong spirit of inclusivity. Visits to several prominent churches revealed active participation from members of the Hindu, Muslim, and other communities. Sharon Preethi, a finance professional based in the city, captured the essence, stating that Christmas transcends religious boundaries, standing fundamentally for love, kindness, and shared humanity. She noted a visible increase in visitors from diverse faith backgrounds this year, reflecting a growing communal harmony.
Many were first-time visitors who were deeply moved by the experience. Mahesh Rao, who visited St Mary's Cathedral with his family, expressed that the visit surpassed all expectations. He described the music, prayers, and welcoming atmosphere as deeply touching, adding that his children were captivated by the decorations, making it a special family experience.
Enriching Experiences for First-Time Visitors
The trend of cross-community participation was also evident among groups of friends. Shafa R, a second-year BCom student, visited Wesley Church with her friends and found the visual and symbolic elements particularly striking. She mentioned that the Advent wreath, the coloured candles, and the crib depicting the birth of Christ were especially interesting, making her visit both welcoming and intellectually enriching.
This year's Christmas in Hyderabad ultimately stood out not just as a religious observance but as a powerful civic event. It showcased the city's composite culture, where festivals become occasions for mutual understanding and celebration, strengthening the social fabric through shared experiences of joy and reverence.
