Pics by Kalakruti
Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Dec 25: Prayers for communal harmony, peace and prosperity ushered in Christmas at the stroke of midnight on Thursday, December, 24.
Unlike last year’s Christmas festivities which were mellowed down as a consequence of terror attacks, this year the streets were jammed with Christmas revellers from outside the State as well as foreigners .
The Christmas midnight mass at the Mary Immaculate Church in Panaji.
Beautiful Christmas cribs at Oswin mascarenhes's residence at St Inez in Panaji.
A beautiful Christmas tree and decor made of recycled and other waste material has been erected at the Panaji Church Square spreading the message 'RECYCLE REDUCE
REUSE' this Christmas. This is a joint initiative by the Radioactive Entertainment and the Corporation of the City of Panaji.
Christmas wishes.
The solemn eucharistic services were preceded by carol singing and chiming of bells to mark the birth of Christ.
Around 200 churches and chapels held midnight masses to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in the State where 30 per cent of the population is Catholic.
Homes and village corners were lit up with decorative lights and Christmas trees. Hotels clubs and resorts ushered in the Yuletide season with variety entertainment programmes, and traditional dances.
Various community programmes have also been organised for children and senior citizens.
Inflation failed to dampen the Christmas spirit of Goans, many of whom were seen making last minute purchases at gifts and novelty items stores.
“There is not much impact on sales although prices have gone up. Christmas season sounds good,” Kirit Maganlal, Chairman, retail committee of Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) said.
Lyndon Monteiro, Vice Chairman, Goa Tourism Development Corporation said that all the hotels owned by corporation have a chock a block booking. “we have hundred per cent bookings and it will continue till January,” he said.
A Press Trust of India report states that considering the huge influx of visitors this year, the State police have upped the security apparatus at religious places and in vicinities most frequented by tourists.
Police spokesman Atmaram Deshpande told reporters today the religious centres would be under constant vigil with door frame metal detectors to screen devotees.
Police said that two companies of paramilitary forces are stationed in the State to oversee the law and order situation.