Guwahati, Dec 23: Christian communities across Guwahati are preparing to celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus Christ on December 25, but the joy of Christmas this year is tempered by a shared sense of loss across Assam.
The recent demise of legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg has cast a pall of grief over the state, prompting many communities to scale back outward festivities as a mark of respect.
In the city, churches are set to hold their traditional midnight and Christmas morning services, but public events, decorations, and commercial celebrations are expected to be noticeably subdued.
Assam Christian Forum spokesperson Allen Brooks said the essence of Christmas remains unchanged, even as external celebrations are being toned down.
“Christmas marks the birth of Christ and is celebrated all over the world. But this year in Assam, one of our most beloved family members has passed away,” Brooks told the media. “Because of this, the external celebrations that usually take place will definitely be less. However, the spiritual celebration—the celebration of Christ’s birth in our hearts and churches—will continue as normal.”
He explained that Christmas carries both an outward and inward dimension. “For us as Christians, this is primarily a religious festival. It carries the message of peace, brotherhood, togetherness and sharing joy. That message remains as strong as ever.”
Among the younger members of the community, the excitement surrounding the religious significance of Christmas is still palpable.
A young Christian woman shared that the weeks of preparation leading up to Christmas are an important part of the faith. “Christmas is a time of joy and love, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. We prepare for four weeks, waiting for the Messiah. On December 24, we attend the vigil service and wait for the birth of Jesus on the 25th. It’s truly a time of excitement and hope.”
On the commercial front, the subdued atmosphere has not yet had a major impact, according to local shopkeepers.
“Christmas business is going on well till now,” said Baby Kalita, a city-based trader. “There are still two more days left, so I believe things will pick up. The situation hasn’t affected my business much so far.”
While the sparkle of public celebrations may be dimmer this year, churches across Guwahati are expected to see strong attendance at prayers and services—reflecting a Christmas focused more on reflection, faith, and quiet togetherness than outward festivity.
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