Festive cheer grips Visakhapatnam as Christmas arrives

Visakhapatnam:Visakhapatnam is immersed in the festive spirit as Christmas celebrations unfold across the city, particularly in its vibrant churches. The Christian community is engaging in traditional services, festive decorations, and acts of goodwill to honour the holiday.

Shopping complexes are bustling with activity, and the streets are alive with festive energy. Churches across the city have been transformed with enchanting light displays, electric lamps, and radiant stars, drawing large congregations. Vincent Raj Kumar, pastor of the London Mission Memorial Church, highlighted the significance of Christmas services, which include an 11 PM gathering on Christmas Eve. Lutheran churches will hold evening services on Tuesday, with Christmas Day services starting from 4 AM to 11 AM.

Bakers are also busy meeting the holiday demand. A bakery in Dwarka Nagar reported over 60 themed cake orders, ranging from 2–3 kg. Prices for cakes vary, with simple flavours like chocolate and vanilla costing ₹700–₹800 per kg, and exotic options like blueberry priced at ₹1,200–₹1,500.

Home and Disaster Management Minister Vangalapudi Anitha extended her greetings, emphasising Christ's virtues of equality and sacrifice. "If Christ is born in everyone's heart, the world will become heaven," she said.