Christmas dawns in candlelight and choral hymns

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATED ACROSS COUNTRY

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Christmas was celebrated with devotion and festive gaiety across the country on Thursday as churches were decked in lights and cribs, midnight masses drew large congregations and community events spread cheer amid prayers for peace and harmony.

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president J P Nadda, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and several other prominent leaders from several political parties greeted people commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

"On this auspicious occasion of Christmas, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all citizens, especially brothers and sisters of the Christian community," said President Murmu on X and added that Christmas, the festival of joy and enthusiasm, conveys the message of love and compassion.

Vice President Radhakrishnan also greeted people on Christmas. "Wishing everyone a joyous Christmas, overflowing with hope, love, and kindness. May Christ's message inspire us to build stronger, more caring communities, and may his teachings strengthen our bonds and promote lasting peace," he wrote on X. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday attended a Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption here along with a large congregation of Christians of Delhi and north India.

The service included prayers, carols, hymns and a special prayer for the prime minister by Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Swarup, the Bishop of Delhi.

"Attended the Christmas morning service at The Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi. The service reflected the timeless message of love, peace and compassion. May the spirit of Christmas inspire harmony and goodwill in our society," Modi said in a post on X.