Holy nights and starry lights: India’s cities dazzle on Christmas

Kolkata: A vibrant crowd throngs Park Street to soak in the magic of the Christmas Carnival. (Photo: Partha Paul)

Mumbai: Traffic Police join the festivities with Santa, urging citizens to follow traffic rules. (Photo: Ganesh Shirsekar)

Mumbai: The first Christmas Morning Mass at Don Bosco Church, Matunga.

Delhi: Carolers gather for solemn Christmas prayers at a New Delhi church.

Mumbai: Midnight Mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Name. (Photo: Sankhadeep Banerjee)

Pune: St. Mary’s Church in Camp dazzles with festive lights and decor. (Photo: Arul Horizon)

Delhi: Shoppers flock to bustling markets in New Delhi for last-minute Christmas gifts. (Photo: Amit Mehra)

Lucknow: Celebrations come alive at Cathedral Church in Hazratganj as people gather for Christmas joy. (Photo: PTI)

Kochi: A stunning 15-foot star graces the Bishop's House in Fort Kochi. (Photo: Vikas Ramdas)

Delhi: Sacred Heart Cathedral Church glows with candlelight as devotees gather on Christmas Eve.

Dehradun: Carolers join a prayer service at Central Methodist Church. (Photo: PTI)

Thiruvananthapuram: Visitors admire the beautifully decorated Vettukad Church on Christmas Eve. (Photo: PTI)

Patna: Newborns wrapped in red and white blankets bring festive cheer to a hospital in Patna. (Photo: PTI)

People gather during Christmas celebrations at Cathedral Church, Hazratganj, in Lucknow. (PTI Photo)

Shimla: The illuminated Christ Church adds a magical glow to Christmas Eve in Shimla. (Photo: PTI)

Ranchi: Streets of Ranchi sparkle with festive decorations on Christmas Eve. (Photo: PTI)