Kashmir celebrates Christmas with religious fervour

Srinagar, Dec 25: Christmas, the birthday of Jesus Christ, was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety in Kashmir on Sunday.
Devotees held special prayers for peace and prosperity.
The biggest mass in the valley was held at the Holy Family Catholic Church at Maulana Azad Road in the heart of Srinagar city, where hundreds of Christians, including women and children, assembled to celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ, and held special prayers.
The churches were decorated with colourful bunting and balloons and had a festive look. Tourists from various parts of the country were among those who prayed. Devotees prayed for peace in Kashmir with the locals and the rest of the world.
Similar prayers were also held at other churches in Kashmir which include Saint Joseph’s Church in the city and St Mary’s Church in tourist resort of Gulmarg.
The whole nation is soaked in the Christmas celebration with prayers, revelry, and midnight mass. Communities irrespective of religion greet each other and exchange gifts to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
“The teachings of Jesus Christ, the apostle of peace, compassion, and brotherhood, have guided human beings on the path of righteousness. Jesus Christ is perhaps more relevant today than ever when the world is facing increasing hatred, intolerance, and violence.” said a lady devotee.
“Celebration of this joyous occasion would strengthen the bonds of communal harmony, brotherhood, amity, secularism, and the pluralistic traditions for which Jammu and Kashmir were always known,” she added.
To strengthen communal harmony, a group of people, including men, women, and children, celebrated the festival with their Christian brethren at many locations in the city..
The local people were also seen wearing Santa caps to share this special occasion with their Christian brothers.
The locals said the aim of celebrating this occasion was to strengthen the bond between the two communities.