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Kerala is one the few places in India
where Christmas is most keenly celebrated. The festival of universal love and
brotherhood is one of the most awaited celebrations in God’s Own Country. About
20% of the population here are Christians but people from other religions are
also heartily welcomed to celebrate the birth of Saint Jesus Christ on 25th
December.
The preparations for Christmas in
Kerala take place prior to the festival. There are numerous customs and
ceremonies involved while celebrating the great day. Popular customs include
exchange of presents wrapped in beautifully decorated colour papers, making
delicious creamy cakes, sharing meal with family and friends, decorating
Christmas trees and cribs and hanging Christmas stars outside the houses.
Christmas father or Santa Clause is one of the main attractions for the night.
Children especially are very delighted as they believe Santa will bring gifts
and sweets.
You will X’mas stars outside every
home and shops. They come in various colours and patterns. At night a lighted
lamp is placed inside it which gives a mesmerizing effect. Sincerely speaking,
Kerala turns into paradise at night.
In the churches and cathedrals, hymns
and carols are sung and a holy mass is held by the priest at midnight. But
before the mass, an image of the baby Jesus is placed in the wonderfully
decorated cribs. Candles are lit and crackers are burst to signify the holy
birth of Jesus into the world. Finally, people hug each other and a feast with
delicious cakes and meals take place.
Thus, the holy celebration of
Christmas in Kerala spreads the message of brotherhood and compassion. Trust
me, if you ever visit Kerala during this time, you will see the best Christmas
celebration ever.
New Year Attractions in Kerala
New Year, the most awaited festival is
just few weeks away. Preparations to welcome 2013 are in full swing. No doubt
you are planning to make the celebration a memorable one. Are you wanting to
celebrate this wonderful occasion as a vacation in the blissful company of
natural splendour but don’t know where to go? No worries, I shall tell you of a
place where you will have wonderful moments for your memorabilia that you can
cherish for the rest of your life.
Kerala, yes God’s Own Country is what
I highly suggest you to visit this New Year. New Year like any other festival
is most heartily celebrated in Kerala. Houses and shops are wonderfully
decorated with beautiful lightings. Trust me entire Kerala turns into paradise
on this beautiful occasion. New Year attractions in Kerala are in plenty.
Backwaters cruises during this time are the best thing to do. Hire a houseboat
and explore the inner beauty of Kerala. Kumarakom and Alleppey are the two top
destinations which offer the best houseboats cruises in the state. Trip to
beaches like Kovalam is another good option. Beach parties here on this day
will just blow your mind. Eat, dance and drink all night long. But if you want
to celebrate this great day in a calm environment, then just head over to
captivating hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad. You may also visit places
like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary which offers you the most exotic display of
flora and fauna. Trip to waterfalls like Athirappilly is again a fun idea.
All in all, your trip to Kerala on
this enchanting occasion is just worth every penny. Have a time of your life
this New Year.
