On Christmas, people pray for peace in Kashmir

Christmas was celebrated Monday across Kashmir with religious fervour  as special prayers were held for peace and brotherhood across the churches in the Valley.

The celebrations this time were more upbeat compared to last year.

"Last year the celebrations were low-key due to the unrest and were restricted to the spiritual part only. This year also we did not make it so big, but colourful celebrations are taking place," said Father Roy at the Holy Family Catholic Church on MA Road in Srinagar.

"We prayed for world peace and especially for peace in Kashmir. We wish peace to every brother and sister," he said.

Hundreds of Christians, including women and children, assembled at the Holy Family Catholic Church to celebrate the  festival and participated in special prayers.

The chilly weather  failed to deter people, especially children, from attending  masses at churches. They were seen wearing new winter clothes on the occasion.

Apart from the midnight mass, which is also known as vigil mass, Christmas Day mass was held on Monday.  

In ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir, the pastor of the Valley's oldest Protestant church, the St. Mary's church, along with other Christians prayed for the peace in the state i.

"There is no peace in the world because we do not love one another. We do not care for each other and we do not have the courage to show humanity," the pastor said.

Tourists from different parts of the country and world joined the locals on the auspicious day and prayed for peace and brotherhood as well.  

Similar functions were held at Anantnag town, 55 km south of Srinagar and Baramulla town, 52km northwest of Srinagar.