Srinagar,: The miniscule Christian community of Kashmir celebrated Christmas with immense religious fervour and joy on Wednesday, braving the bone-chilling cold and freezing temperatures across the valley.
The largest congregation in the Valley took place at the Holy Family Catholic Church on Maulana Azad Road in the heart of Srinagar, where a large number of Christians, including women and children, attended the mass prayers on the occasion.
The church was adorned with colorful buntings, balloons, and vibrant lights, creating a festive atmosphere. A replica of the birthplace of Jesus Christ was also set up in the church garden where devotees lit candles to pay homage.
A mass prayer was also held in the church till midnight last night during which a good number of devotees participated.
Reports of Christmas celebrations were also received from various parts of the valley including Baramulla, and Gulmarg. Many tourists attended the prayer meet at the church in the ski resort of Gulmarg, which houses one of the oldest churches of the Valley.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and several leaders extended the Christmas greetings.
