Ranchi Celebrates Christmas Eve: Churches, Markets Buzz with Festive Spirit

Ranchi: As the sun set and mercury started dipping, Christmas spirit came alive in the state capital as churches, restaurants and streets bustled with revellers.By evening, crowds started arriving in large numbers at churches across the city. Hundreds of faithful at the gates hours ahead of the midnight mass. As choirs sung hymns and gospel music inside the churches, volunteers managed the entry of the large congregation which arrived expected later in the night.“Christmas Eve is a time of prayer and waiting. We gather early to prepare our hearts before the birth of Christ is celebrated at midnight,” said Maria Xalxo, who arrived with her family at St. Mary’s Cathedral church at Purulia Road.Markets and public spaces took on a festive glow, with illuminated stars, decorative lights and Christmas trees lighting up neighbourhoods. Stalls selling paper stars, Santa caps, fairy lights and festive decor made brisk business through the evening.Bakeries and confectionery shops remained crowded, as revellers bought cakes and sweets for celebrations at home. “Most families will attend the midnight mass first and then celebrate together by cutting cakes and sharing food,” said bakery owner Rakesh Kumar from Purulia Road.Public spaces and housing colonies have also joined in, with community decorations and small gatherings reflecting the Yuletide spirit. “Christmas brings a message of peace and togetherness, and that feeling is visible everywhere tonight,” Preeti Mandal, a student who was out visiting city churches with her friends, said.