Thaindian News

Mumbai, Dec 25 (IANS) Lovely gifts followed by church services brought cheer in Mumbai on Christmas Sunday. People celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ with enthusiasm and faith as they prayed and decorated their houses with cribs, lights and stars.

People met friends and relatives and greeted them the best for the coming season. They arranged for special parties and exchanged Christmas goodies.

Cake shops came up with new concepts for cakes and chocolates to attract customers. Cakes featuring Christmas trees and Santa were a major hit.

Malls arranged special programmes for the festival. Special promotional offers and discounts were also offered.

Christian pockets of Colaba, Byculla, Mazgaon, Mahim, Bandra, Malvani, Orlem, Borivli and Bhayander lighted up beautifully.

“We have made an eco-friendly crib only out of paper,” said Alex D’silva, a resident of suburban Borivli.

“Everyone in our locality comes together to celebrate all festivals. This idea was suggested by someone who is not a Christian,” he added.

Several balls were also organised and men were seen in their best suits while women in shimmering dresses danced to the tunes of carols and other songs.

Said Blessy Thomas from Bandra: “I, a few family friends and relatives worked hard to make our home party a success.”

Mumbai is home to over 11 lakh Christians, of which six lakh are Catholics.