Festivities begin with Semi-Christmas celebrations lighting up port city
Visakhapatnam: With Christmas approaching, the port city of Visakhapatnam has come alive with the festive spirit. Churches and certain educational institutions are leading the way in celebrating the Semi-Christmas on Thursday and Friday. On Sunday, the city's historic churches have scheduled a host of special services, marking the continuation of a rich tradition. Vincent Raj Kumar, pastor of Visakhapatnam's oldest London Mission Memorial Church, told Deccan Chronicle that they had begun their Advent celebrations on December 1, which will continue till January 6.
"Each week, there is a unique theme," he explained, "from Women's Advent Sunday to children and youth celebrations." Women take centre stage with dramatic performances and musical events during their dedicated Sunday. Children's Advent Sunday showcases young talent through dance performances and other creative activities.
The London Mission Memorial Church's celebration calendar includes special candlelight services and carol groups visiting homes of church members distributing calendars and gifts. The festivities will culminate with a Watch Night Service on December 31, followed by New Year's Day Service and Community Feast, before the festivities conclude with the Final Advent Sunday on January 6.
The Anglo-Indian community has begun its celebrations with a festive gathering at Kotak Primary School. The Visakhapatnam chapter of All India Anglo-Indian Association (AIAIA) has already organised its first Christmas event of the season, featuring children's activities, Christmas tree decorations, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The community's celebrations will peak with the traditional Christmas Ball at Kashyap Hall, Seethammadhara, on December 25, featuring live performances by Goan artists Tammy and Roy.
The commercial aspects of the celebrations are evident at the Jagadamba Centre, where shopkeeper Rokkam Rakesh is offering a diverse collection of Christmas stars. There is a particular surge in demand for electric and illuminated stars this year.
Many of Visakhapatnam's historic churches trace their origins to the colonial era. Among the city's oldest religious landmarks is St. Aloysius Cathedral, established in 1770. Other notable examples are London Mission Memorial Church built in 1836 and St. Anthony's Church completed in 1852.
