The yuletide spirit enveloped the City and it was time for families and friends to get-together to celebrate the holy festival of Christmas.

The celebrations which began with carols and midnight services at all churches across the City continued till late on Tuesday night true to Christmas spirit.
At homes the Christmas stars were seen decorated on the doors and windows. Teams of carol singers visited homes and exchanged greetings to rekindle the message of happiness, peace and love.

The normally crowded city roads wore a deserted look in the morning and later caught on with the festivities as people ventured out of their houses exchanging warm greetings with one and another.

By evening shopping malls and the city’s commercial areas were throbbing with activity as people of all ages were in a mood to celebrate. While, kids conjured up the images of Santa Claus as they wore the Santa’s masks, the older ones too were not far behind as they sported Santa caps.

Christmas carols was at its best not only in churches but also in many of the city’s malls, as carol singers with their music instruments enthralled the crowds with Yuletide melody.

True to the message of Christmas which is all about spreading love and giving, many charities were organised across the city to help the poor and to eradicate sufferings.

The City’s Anglo Indian Guild hosted its annual Grand Yuletide Charity Ball and the proceeds were distributed to St Mary’s Orphanage and for the upbringing of the poor and needy  children.

“ Traditionally, the spirit of Christmas is all about giving and sharing. The occasion is a solemn way of reliving the teachings of Jesus and it is for us to replicate in our lives,” said George Fernandez, president, Anglo Indian guild. 
Traffic jams
Traffic moved at snails pace on MG Road, Commercial Street, Cubbon Road, Cunningham Road, Airport Road and surrounding areas. The traffic movement was so dense that Brigade Road was cordoned off for vehicles as shoppers and tourists thronged in large numbers. The entire stretch of the road which has already been decked up for the occasion with decorative lights truly wore a festive look.
Shoppers and tourists were seen shooting each other with their mobile phone cameras and handycams.