Guwahati (Assam) [India], December 22 (HBTV): Shops across Guwahati are buzzing with festive cheer as markets have been decked out with Christmas decorations, reflecting the growing enthusiasm among residents ahead of the holiday season.
In anticipation of Christmas on December 25, shopfronts have transformed into colourful displays featuring trees, bells and stars. From gift caps to decorative trees and ornaments, shoppers are being drawn in by the festive atmosphere and the wide range of items on offer.
A shopkeeper said they are offering a large variety of decorations, including trees of different sizes and all essential items needed for decoration. ‘Merry Christmas. You will get everything related to Christmas here. There are trees ranging from one to 10 feet in height and stars along with everything else,’ she said.
She added that sales have been encouraging and are expected to pick up further as Christmas approaches. ‘Sales are good, and since there are two to three days left, sales will improve. Customers are coming, but because it is Sunday, more people may arrive in the evening,’ she said.
Storefronts across the city are adorned with shimmering bells, colourful stars and Santa Claus figures, adding to the festive ambience. The city is filled with a sense of shared merriment as families prepare for the holidays ahead.
Christmas decorations are often kept up throughout the winter holidays until January to welcome the New Year, prompting many residents to put extra effort into making their homes inviting for visiting guests.
Meanwhile, in Shimla, candlelight prayers were organised at the historic Christ Church at Ridge Maidan on Saturday evening. The iconic church, a major landmark of the hill town, saw participation from local residents as well as tourists.
Speaking to ANI, Dr Vinita Roy, pastor in charge of Christ Church Shimla, said Christmas celebrations at the church begin well in advance. ‘Our Christmas programmes start much earlier. From the season of Advent itself, our preparations begin. This year, Advent started on November 30, and since then, our Christmas programmes have been ongoing. In the first week of December, we went door to door for carolling, which is practised across the world. We visit each other’s homes, exchange Christmas wishes, offer prayers and greet one another,’ she said.
She added that the church will remain open late into the night on December 24 to allow tourists and visitors to offer prayers and receive blessings. People from all religions, including Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, visit Christ Church not only during Christmas but throughout the year and actively participate in its activities.
(ANI)