Carols, Gifts and Celebrations Hit High Note as Christmas Nears

Hyderabad: With Christmas getting closer by the day, celebrations across the twin cities are nearing fever pitch, with churches decking up premises, schools and institutions arranging parties and carollers visiting homes of the faithful to spread the festive joy.

The season is also one for gift giving, with people dressed up as Santa Claus spreading joy to children with gifts.

Wanting to make a difference during the festive season, a group of students from Class 4 to Class 11 — Prisha Susanne Sunkavalli, Finny Gummadi, Ashish Daniel and Shamma Gummadi — took up an initiative to celebrate pre-Christmas with children at the Grace Cancer Foundation. The event was one of powerful musical renditions, which provided a release and respite for the children battling cancer and navigating the complexities of terminal illness.

An organiser of the event said, “The power of song, coupled with the genuine empathy of the young performers, turned an ordinary evening into a beacon of hope. The foundation's dedication to supporting cancer patients goes beyond the holiday season. By organising events like these, they not only contribute to the well-being of those, but also raise awareness about the emotional and psychological needs of individuals facing terminal illnesses.”

At Mahbubia Girls High School, three wishes incorporated into Christmas ornaments for children to hang on Christmas trees made children jubilant. The wishes were fulfilled by Godrej’s Vikhroli Cucina and Jersey brands as part of spreading festive joy.

The Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church’s A1 Parish, in Lakdikapul, was also decked up with fresh painting, lighting and decorations, according to Radha Prasad, a member of the church committee. “The majority of the members, around 2,000 in number, are those of Andhra origin. They will be attending the service,” he said.