Although Christians live all over India, they are concentrated in the north-eastern region and alongside the southern and western shoreline of the country. The multitude of cultural flavors of the regions result in one multi-ethnic festivity of the "Christ's Mass". The Christmas Mass, which starts the celebration, is generally performed in the native languages.
In Mizoram, Christmas is a community affair for the residents. 'Lengkhawn Zai,' as it is referred to by the locals, is marked with soft and low pitched carols symbolizing more of spiritual joy than the festive environment. The traditional songs and dance also form a part of the celebration.
Goa, situated on the western coastline of the country, keeps the festive mood on round the year but it is augmented particularly during Christmas. Frankie a Customer Sales Executive from Bangalore says, "Being a Goan is like having the festive spirit imbued in me. To us making various sweet dishes is an integral part of the festival. Nankaties - a type of cookie, kulkuls - preparation involving the whole family, Dodol, Bebinca, Laddus and lots of other delicacies simply add to the colour.”
"The main Christmas feast is generally the roasted Turkey, but now the turkey is replaced by pork or chicken preparations," says Jacqueline, a resident of Chandannagar West Bengal. “One of the major attractions of my place is the Christmas celebration at the Sacred Heart Church, Barabazar. The Church is decorated and lit up beautifully. People of all religions crowd to see the age old church in all its splendor.”
Veronica, a Kolkatan states, "In fact, it is a great vacation and reunion time for the family. Pre-Christmas we engage in buying things for decorating the Christmas tree, crib, the manger for Infant Jesus and the house."
Various songs composed on the birth and life of Jesus, Kolattam - a kind of stick dance, dramas and burlesque are elements of Christmas celebration among the people of Tamil Nadu. According to Kevin Joy "a 'Youth Christmas' takes place 3-4 days before the actual celebration. As the name suggests there is an age limit to the party that takes place. Lots of small party games are hosted to liven up the environment. Small plays are also enacted to glorify the 'light overcoming the darkness of sin.'"
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