Christmas fever grips Noney, CCpur
Army, AR join celebrations
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 24 2024:
Christmas, the most significant festival for Christians, commenced on Tuesday evening in Noney district with a spirit of religious devotion and celebration.
Festive halls were beautifully decorated and illuminated with vibrant, multi-coloured lighting.
The inaugural ceremony featured a lively atmosphere, beginning with prayers and blessings invoked by religious leaders.
Markets were bustling with activity as residents purchased clothing, food items, and traditional Christ-mas cakes.
However, some shopkeepers in Longmai Bazar reported a lower turnout of buyers compared to the previous year.
Meanwhile, numerous organisations and individuals extended their warm greetings and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
The festival is traditionally celebrated over two to three consecutive days.
In Churachandpur, singing carols and playing them in every church, along with Christmas carollers moving through the streets, is a cherished part of the Christmas celebration.
Another significant aspect of the festivities is the decoration of churches and houses, along with the exchange of gifts among friends, relatives, and others.
A long-standing tradition involves purchasing new clothes to wear on Christmas Day.
Over the past few days, the streets have been bustling with people shopping for outfits, resulting in increased sales for garment shops.
This has also led to traffic congestion, with the police facing challenges in managing the flow of vehicles.
This year, the atmosphere is marked by enthusiasm as people prepare for Christmas, encouraged by a relatively peaceful situation compared to the previous year.
However, a sombre undertone persists, with many feeling the weight of the challenges of the times.
As Christians prepare to celebrate Christmas on December 25, leaders of various community organisations have extended their greetings.
Vumsuan Nauluk, chairman Zomi Council (ZC), conveyed his wishes, stating, "Let Christmas be a revelation of God's glory upon us catalyst for developing brotherhood and friendship among us" .
Albert Renthlei, president Zo United, shared his heartfelt message, saying, "May the warmth of Christmas and the New Year fill our hearts with love, peace, and joy amidst pain, turmoil, and loss." Acknowledging the grief many face due to the loss of loved ones, he emphasised the enduring memory of those cherished individuals and the comfort found in family, friends, and community.
He expressed hope for a brighter future and encouraged collective perseverance.
Henlianthang Thanglet, chairman Kuki-Zo Council, extended his Merry Christmas wishes to the people of the northeast, the nation, and the world.
He mourned those who have lost their lives and prayed for peace, strength, and comfort for their families.
He offered special gratitude to village volunteers for their selfless service in protecting communities in buffer zones, enabling many to live in safety.
He also extended his greetings to the families of martyrs, acknowledging their sacrifices.
Meanwhile, Assam Rifles organised vibrant pre-Christmas celebrations across Manipur, spreading goodwill and festive joy in border and remote villages.
In Kamjong district, a gathering at Chassad united pastors and church members from 49 villages, focusing on welfare initiatives under Operation Sadbhavana.
The event was attended by 55 participants, according to a statement issued by PRO IGAR (S) .
In Kangpokpi-district, celebrations spanned 10 villages, including the Ema Foundation Orphanage, with over 800 participants enjoying carol singing, gift distribution, and exchanges of goodwill.
In Chandel district, Advent Christmas celebrations were held at Aibol Joupi and Saibol Joupi, with traditional dances, games, and festive meals, said the PRO.
Meanwhile, Indian Army organised a Christmas Fair at New Canaan village in Imphal East district to celebrate the spirit of the festive season with a lively gathering that brought the entire village together.
The event also featured a friendly football match between two village teams, informed PRO Defence in a release.
The PRO also conveyed that the children were the heart of the fair, enthusiastically participating in sack races, three-legged races, ring throwing and penalty shootouts, making it a day filled with laughter and joy.
The fair was a true celebration of togetherness, leaving everyone with lasting memories of joy and connection as the festive season began.
It also strengthened the bond within the village, encouraging a shared sense of community spirit that will last beyond the holiday season, the PRO added.
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