Cardinal Paula Anthony, members of the church, and worshipers participate in the midnight mass during Christmas celebrations at St. Mary’s Church in Secunderabad on Wednesday (December 25, 2024). | Photo credit: Ramakrishna Ji
On Christmas Eve, the city of Hyderabad sparkled with joy and celebration as families and friends gathered in churches and public places to sing traditional carols and enjoy the midnight sun. This year, there has been a significant increase in the number of visitors to churches across the city. As midnight approached, the sky became colorful as fireworks lit up different parts of the city.
St. Mary’s Basilica Church is illuminated as part of Christmas celebrations in Secunderabad on December 23, 2024. Photo credit: Ramakrishna Ji
Christmas trees stood tall at key junctions in Hyderabad, while street stalls turned into vibrant displays of red and green, filled with lights, decorations and festive paraphernalia on sale weeks before the festivities.
A standout highlight was the electrifying performance by Hope Unlimited Church (UC) in Telugu Lalitha Kala Thoranam, Nampally. Christmas carols captivated the audience in an energetic hour-and-a-half performance held over two services.
Local businesses and organizations played an important role in spreading the festive spirit by organizing events, distributing sweets, and decorating public spaces. In the lead up to Christmas, the city’s famous plum cake shops saw a huge surge in orders, adding to the festive buzz. Hyderabad truly came alive with the magic of Christmas, uniting communities in warmth, celebration and joy.
published – December 25, 2024 at 12:08 pm IST