7 Unique Ways To Celebrate Christmas In India

Christmas is a time of joy, giving, and celebration, and India is no exception. Although Christians make up only a small percentage of the population, Christmas is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the country. Here are 7 unique ways to celebrate Christmas in India:

India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and Christmas celebrations reflect this diversity. From midnight Masses to decorating homes with stars, angels, and Christmas trees, Indians celebrate Christmas with great zeal. In this article, we will explore the unique ways to celebrate Christmas in India, and what makes Christmas in India so special.

Christmas Celebrations in India

Christmas celebrations in India begin on Christmas Eve, with Midnight Masses being held in churches across the country. The services are attended by Christians and non-Christians alike, and are often followed by feasts and festivities. On Christmas Day, families come together to exchange gifts, decorate their homes, and enjoy traditional Christmas delicacies.

1. Decorate Your Home with Indian Twists

Indians love to decorate their homes for Christmas, but with a unique twist. Instead of traditional Christmas decorations, Indians use stars, angels, and Christmas trees made of banana leaves, flowers, and other natural materials. The decorations are often handmade, and reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.

Unique Decoration Ideas

• Use banana leaves to create a Christmas tree or star
• Make a Christmas wreath using flowers and leaves
• Create a nativity scene using clay or wooden figurines
• Decorate your home with diyas (earthen lamps) and candles

2. Enjoy Traditional Christmas Delicacies

Indian Christmas cuisine is a fusion of traditional and modern flavors. Some popular Christmas delicacies include biryani, chicken or mutton curry, and sweets like kul kuls and nevris. Indians also enjoy traditional Christmas cakes and cookies, often made with Indian spices and ingredients.

Traditional Christmas Delicacies

• Biryani: a flavorful rice dish made with meat or vegetables
• Chicken or mutton curry: a spicy and flavorful curry made with meat and spices
• Kul kuls: sweet, deep-fried dough balls often flavored with cardamom and nuts
• Nevris: sweet, deep-fried dough balls often flavored with coconut and nuts

3. Attend Midnight Mass

Midnight Mass is an essential part of Christmas celebrations in India. The services are held in churches across the country, and are often attended by Christians and non-Christians alike. The services are followed by feasts and festivities, and are a great way to experience the spirit of Christmas.

Tips for Attending Midnight Mass

• Arrive early to get a good seat
• Dress modestly and respect the church's traditions
• Participate in the prayers and hymns
• Enjoy the feast and festivities after the service

4. Exchange Gifts with a Personal Touch

Indians love to exchange gifts during Christmas, but with a personal touch. Instead of traditional gifts, Indians often make their own gifts, such as handmade cards, crafts, and sweets. The gifts are often personalized and reflect the giver's love and care.

Unique Gift Ideas

• Make a handmade card or craft
• Bake Christmas cookies or sweets
• Create a personalized photo album or frame
• Make a donation to a charity in someone's name

5. Celebrate with Music and Dance

Music and dance are an integral part of Indian Christmas celebrations. Indians love to sing Christmas carols and dance to traditional and modern tunes. The celebrations are often accompanied by fireworks, crackers, and other festivities.

Traditional Christmas Carols

• "Jingle Bells"
• "Silent Night"
• "Joy to the World"
• "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer"

6. Visit a Christmas Market or Fair

Christmas markets and fairs are a great way to experience the spirit of Christmas in India. The markets and fairs offer a wide range of goods, including handicrafts, decorations, and traditional delicacies.

Popular Christmas Markets and Fairs

• The Christmas Market in Bangalore
• The Winter Festival in Delhi
• The Christmas Fair in Mumbai
• The Kolkata Christmas Market

7. Take a Trip to a Hill Station

India's hill stations are a great place to escape the heat and chaos of city life during Christmas. The hill stations offer a cool and peaceful atmosphere, and are a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

Popular Hill Stations in India

• Shimla
• Manali
• Darjeeling
• Mussoorie

In conclusion, Christmas in India is a unique and exciting experience. From decorating homes with Indian twists to enjoying traditional Christmas delicacies, there are many ways to celebrate Christmas in India. Whether you're a Christian or not, Christmas is a great time to come together with family and friends, and to experience the spirit of giving and joy.