Christmas Celebrated with Enthusiasm and Tradition in Northeastern States

Aizawl/Shillong/Kohima, Dec 25 (NationPress) The Northeastern states are fully immersed in the festive spirit, with prayers for peace and prosperity being conducted in countless churches across the region on the occasion of Christmas this Wednesday.

In the lead-up to the celebration, churches, government and private buildings, homes, shops, parks, cemeteries, and streets were adorned with vibrant lights, flowers, and Christian symbols.

The Governors and Chief Ministers from all the northeastern states extended their warm wishes to the populace on this joyous occasion.

Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and other states in the northeast saw a remarkable transformation as Christmas masses commenced, with thousands of structures, both governmental and private, illuminated beautifully since Monday.

Over six million Christians reside in Mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, with significant Christian populations in the other northeastern states as well.

State governments in the predominantly Christian states of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya declared holidays for several days to allow the community to indulge in the festivities.

On the second day, traditional community feasts are organized to highlight the importance of the occasion.

In a show of unity, leaders and members from various political factions and individuals from all backgrounds participate in numerous celebratory events.

Christmas festivities were also observed in Assam, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, with active participation from non-Christians and individuals from various religions.

However, due to ethnic unrest in Manipur, the celebrations were more subdued in both the valley and hilly areas.

Nagaland is embracing the occasion with a mix of religious devotion and festive exuberance.

Both towns and villages are aglow with decorative lights, and homes are festively adorned as people commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.

State Governor La Ganesan and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio have conveyed their Christmas greetings, wishing everyone peace, joy, and hope.

Many churches held midnight masses on Christmas Eve, which set a joyful atmosphere for the day.

The sound of ringing bells and carols filled the air, echoing praises to Lord Jesus, as worshippers gathered in solemn reverence.

People dressed in their finest attire flocked to churches of varying denominations for community worship and hymns on Wednesday morning.

Delicious feasts are being prepared to celebrate the Naga spirit and partake in traditional community gatherings.

Exchanging greetings and gifts, along with visiting friends and loved ones, marked the celebrations, while others expressed goodwill by visiting the homes of those less fortunate.

Mizoram, nestled in the mountains, is recognized for its vibrant Christmas celebrations, blending religious devotion with traditional enthusiasm, making December a particularly special month in the border state.

Churches are festively decorated, and villages, towns, and offices are adorned with Christmas trees, while carols resonate throughout the state.

Various church organizations, non-governmental organizations, including the influential apex civil society Young Mizo Association (YMA), and individuals have generously donated gifts to the underprivileged.

Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Lalduhoma have led the state in contributing funds to various orphanages and care centers.

Christmas symbolizes 'giving' and nurtures the spirit of peace and unity.

In Meghalaya, churches, significant establishments, streets, homes, and even trees were decorated with colorful lights and other embellishments.

Apart from a large influx of tourists, many people from outside the state gather in Meghalaya, with hotel rooms booked months in advance. The hill state's scenic beauty, combined with festive decorations, contributes a unique charm rarely found elsewhere.

Accommodations in and around Shillong, including popular locales like Police Bazaar, Laitumkhrah, and Upper Shillong, have been fully booked for weeks.

Homestays and guesthouses in areas such as Mawphlang, Sohra, and Umiam are also enjoying brisk business during this festive time.