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Christmas Eve in India is celebrated on the 24th of December, marking the culmination of the Advent period and leading up to Christmas Day. While India is predominantly a Hindu nation, it has a significant Christian population, and Christmas is a national holiday observed across the country.
The tradition of celebrating Christmas in India can be traced back to European colonization, with Portuguese and British influences particularly notable. Indian Christians often attend Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, a tradition that has been followed for generations. Churches are beautifully decorated with poinsettias and lights, and scenes depicting the nativity are commonly displayed.
On Christmas Eve, Indian Christians may engage in fasting before attending the special evening church services. Families come together to pray, sing carols, and participate in Mass. Afterward, festivities begin which may include feasting on traditional foods such as curry dishes, biryani (a mixed rice dish), sweets like kulkuls (deep-fried sweetened dough curls), and beverages like spiced tea.
Homes are often adorned with star-shaped paper lanterns known as 'Christmas stars,' symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. Lights and small clay lamps called 'diyas' are also used to decorate homes in a manner similar to Diwali celebrations.
In some regions of India, particularly in urban areas or where Christian communities are larger, you might find Santa Claus figures and gifting practices akin to Western customs. Children look forward to receiving presents either on Christmas Eve night or on Christmas morning.
While commercialization is less pervasive than in Western countries, major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata showcase festive decorations at malls and stores with special sales for the holiday season.
In essence, Christmas Eve in India serves as both a religious observance for Christians and an opportunity for communal celebration among people from various backgrounds who partake in the joyous spirit of the holiday.
