Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 25 : Kashmir Valley celebrated Christmas with great enthusiasm and joy, even as the region missed the blanket of snow that typically marks the festive season.
While the residents had their hopes up for a white Christmas, it did nothing to dissuade them from all that merriment, and the holiday spirit came alive in all its shades across the valley.
According to the news agency the festival was full of cheer and glee in Srinagar. Churches all across the valley were donned with twinkle lights and Christmas trees.
Hymns and prayers filled the churches, as families congregated together to celebrate. Despite blue skies, nothing could be as warm as this community and its festive atmosphere.
Punam from Srinagar said Christmas is much more than what the snow would offer. It is togetherness, love and the joy of the season.
Gulmarg was almost a quiet tourist destination as there was not enough snowfall. However, the locals used this time to come together for special prayers and performances, making the festive spirit still very much alive.
Agnes from Delhi said, “Even if there is no snow, we have made the best of this day. Christmas joy is in the hearts of people, not just in the snow.
A priest at a church in Srinagar said, “Christmas is not about the weather or decorations, but the message of hope and love that it brings to all. That message remains unchanged.”
The holiday was marked with family gatherings and special church services across the towns and villages of Kashmir. The locals exchanged gifts, shared meals and reflected on the meaning of Christmas
