Ranchi welcomed Christmas Day on Thursday with thousands of residents braving the morning chill to attend special masses and prayers at churches across the city. The air was thick with festive excitement and joy as the community came together to celebrate.
City Adorned in Festive Spirit
The streets of Ranchi transformed into a vibrant canvas of classic red and white. Santa caps, scarves, and themed decorations were a common sight, while main arterial roads glowed under elaborate decorative lights, adding a magical touch to the winter evening. Auto driver Ramesh Yadav noted that the lighting made the city look beautifully festive without being too overwhelming.
Across neighbourhoods, the day was about warmth and togetherness. Families and friends gathered in homes, exchanging greetings and sharing meals. Anjali Singh, a resident of Doranda, shared that Christmas in Ranchi feels calmer and warmer, focusing on being with loved ones. Restaurants and cafes joined the celebrations, offering special Christmas menus, baked treats, and live music. Shop owner Mohit Verma from Lalpur observed that even those who usually stay home venture out to markets to soak in the unique vibe.
The sounds of the day were a gentle mix of soft carols and the occasional burst of crackers, as families celebrated in their own ways. Bakeries experienced sustained demand for cakes and desserts well into the night. College student Neha Tirkey at Camil Bulcke Road reflected that Christmas in Ranchi is as much about sharing and slowing down as it is about celebration.
Scenic Waterfalls Become Celebration Hubs
A significant number of celebrants chose to mark the holiday amidst nature. Popular tourist spots, especially the major waterfalls including Hundru, Jonha, and Dassam, reported exceptionally heavy footfall. Families and groups flocked to these scenic locations to enjoy the pleasant winter weather together.
Hundru Falls emerged as one of the most crowded destinations, with visitors starting to arrive from early morning. The area buzzed with activity as people enjoyed picnics, took photographs, and relaxed near the cascading waters. Rakesh Kumar, who visited with his family, said visiting Hundru has become a Christmas tradition for them. Another visitor, Anjali Verma, expressed how refreshing it felt to celebrate the festival in the lap of nature.
Economic Boost and Arrangements
The surge in visitors translated into brisk business for local vendors near the waterfalls. Stalls selling tea, snacks, and refreshments remained busy throughout the day. Snack vendor Sunil Mahto at Hundru Falls highlighted that festive days like Christmas are crucial for their sales due to the high footfall. Similar scenes of steady crowds and increased vehicular movement were witnessed at Jonha and Dassam Falls. Authorities deployed police personnel to manage traffic and ensure the safety of all visitors.
As night fell, the city gradually slowed down, wrapping up a Christmas day filled with faith, family, festivity, and a deep connection with both community and nature.
