Mizoram Embraces Christmas Spirit with Joyful Celebrations
Mizoram's Festive Atmosphere
Aizawl, Dec 23: The predominantly Christian state of Mizoram is fully immersed in the festive spirit of Christmas, with carols and songs resonating throughout the streets, churches, and homes. Residents of all ages are eagerly anticipating the celebrations.
This year marks the 155th anniversary of Christmas festivities in Mizoram.
Churches across the state are busy with preparations, adorning their buildings and courtyards with decorations.
Young members from various churches have been actively singing Christmas hymns, sharing messages of joy and peace.
Streets in Aizawl and other towns are beautifully decorated to celebrate the season.
Numerous NGOs and church groups are engaged in charitable activities, providing gifts to orphanages, jails, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals. In Aizawl and several district headquarters, music concerts are being held to raise funds for those in need.
Reverend Lalhmingmawia from the Mizoram Presbyterian Church stated, "Giving gifts embodies the true spirit of Christmas, symbolizing God's love."
Shoppers flocked to markets in the capital and district headquarters for pre-Christmas purchases.
To facilitate public shopping during this festive period, the state government has declared 'no vehicle zones' in busy areas of Aizawl and other districts on December 23, 24, and 31.
Lalhlimpuii, a garment shop owner in Aizawl's Bara Bazaar, noted, "Foot traffic in markets and malls has increased compared to previous years."
The government has also planned a Christmas-themed costume parade and mass carol on Tuesday to spread messages of love, peace, and joy in honor of Christ's birth.
For the Mizo people, Christmas is a significant time for family gatherings, with many returning home from various locations to celebrate with loved ones. Lalthianghlimi, a 26-year-old from Saitual district working in Goa, expressed her joy at reuniting with her family after more than a decade.
Historically, the first Christmas celebration in Mizoram occurred in 1871, initiated by British colonial troops near the Tuivai River, which led to an attack by Mizo warriors during the festivities.
The Christmas celebrations in Mizoram span three days, commencing on the evening of December 24 with 'urlawk zan' or pre-night festivities, and concluding on December 26.
December 25 is primarily reserved for worship, featuring church services, sermons, and 'zaikhawm' (congregational singing), while December 26 is celebrated with traditional community feasts, a vital aspect of Christmas for the Mizo people.