The festival of Christmas was celebrated with religious enthusiasm and gaiety in Kashmir Valley, amid freezing cold temperatures on Monday.
The main function was held at the Catholic Church at Maulana Azad Road, Srinagar, where a large number of members of the community, including women and children, visited to attend the mass prayers on the occasion despite freezing temperatures.
A festive look was given to the church, decorated with colorful bunting, balloons, and illumination. A replica of the birthplace of Jesus Christ was also erected in the church garden, where devotees lit candles to pay homage.
A mass prayer was also held in the church till midnight, during which a good number of devotees participated.
Father Prem said Christmas is a message of love, joy, and happiness that we are celebrating. He said Christmas is an occasion that gives us an opportunity to share joy, happiness, and brotherhood with each other.
Reports of Christmas celebrations were also received from various parts of the valley, including Baramulla and Gulmarg.