Christmas In India

Christians in India decorate mango or banana trees at Christmas time. Sometimes they also decorate their houses with mango leaves. In some parts of India, small clay oil-burning lamps are used as Christmas decorations; they are placed on the edges of flat roofs and on the tops of walls. Churches are decorated with poinsettias and lit with candles for the Christmas Evening service.

A tradition is a specific practice of long standing in which unwritten customs and practices are passed from one generation to the next. Traditions and customs form part of a country's culture and heritage. The following information provides some fast, interesting facts about customs and Christmas traditions in India:

Less than 2.5% of Indians are Christians but many Christmas traditions were passed to India because India was British colony till 1947

India celebrates almost all festivals that are celebrated by all religions over the whole world

Christmas often coincides with the Winter Solstice which is celebrated in India  and is called Makar Sakranti. During this special time sweets are prepared and distributed to the family

Christmas and the New Year is officially celebrated at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by the President of India. Rashtrapati Bhavan means 'President House' and is the official residence of the President of India which located in New Delhi

Christmas is also known as bada din meaning 'the big day'

Gifts are given by Santa Claus brings to many good Indian children.

Christmas Traditions in India - The Food!

What do people eat in other countries at this special time of the year? Festive feasts and recipes are traditional for special occasions including family dinners and meals. Interesting facts about the special food eaten as part of the customs and Christmas traditions in India:

Community feasting, called Lengkhawn Zai, is enjoyed by many Indians

Homemade cookies are eaten

Main meals include mutton stews and roast meats including duck

Athirasam, a sweet made in South India especially during festivals are popular in India as is Christmas Pudding