Bengaluru soaks in Yuletide spirit

Christmas was celebrated in the city with fervour and joy on Sunday. On the eve of the festival, Infant Jesus was welcomed to Earth with carols and hymns.

During the day, special prayers were held in churches like Hudson Memorial Church, St Patrick’s Church and St Mark’s Cathedral.

Gifts were exchanged, surprises were unwrapped and Secret Santas were revealed. Friends and families gathered to share their joy. “The best thing about this festival is that we get to spend time with our loved ones,” said Ashwin Lewis, a software engineer in the city.

“Christmas is also a festival which is celebrated universally. My friends from other religions also took part in the festivities by exchanging gifts in the office,” he added.Aishwarya J attended the midnight mass at St Mary’s Basilica, Shivajinagar.

“Though I live about 10 km away, I prefer to go there because I find it peaceful.” She cooked a grand meal at home for her family and spent the day visiting relatives.

Store window decorations on Brigade Road attracted Sunday shoppers. Many were seen wearing bright red Santa caps. Malls in the city were lit up and had creative Christmas decorations.

Christmas trees made of books, gift boxes, bottles and more were put up. Dressed in Santa Claus costumes, people were giving away gifts to children at malls and churches.