A Christmas to Remember

After three years of celebrating Christmas abroad: two magical years in London and a serene winter in Switzerland; this year, my sister and I returned to our roots, to the quiet rural charm of Khanvel, (Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu) our hometown. Christmas in Khanvel is not just an event; it is a celebration of faith, togetherness, and shared joy. This year, it felt even more special as we had the privilege of performing with the church choir.

Having celebrated Christmas in bustling cities with sparkling lights and grand traditions, the simplicity and authenticity of Khanvel was a refreshing change. Here, under the open skies, surrounded by familiar faces, we found a deep sense of connection. The church was adorned modestly but beautifully, with garlands of flowers, stars and lights that seemed to glow brighter because of the love they represented.

Skepticism and Enthusiasm Collide

When my sister and I were invited to join the choir, we had a mix of emotions, eager yet hesitant. Singing hymns in five different languages, including Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, English, and in one of the  local language Daavar, felt both exciting and daunting. But from the first practice session, we knew this was going to be an unforgettable experience.

The Joy of Coming Together

Practicing with the choir was an experience in itself. There’s something magical about a group of people coming together, despite differences, to create harmony.

As we rehearsed, I found myself losing track of time, completely immersed in the music. It was meditative, a rare chance to be fully present, to let the worries of the world fade away. The power of music, I realized, lies in its ability to bring us together while also allowing us to connect with something deeper within ourselves.

The Hymns That Stirred Our Souls

On Christmas Day morning, during the Mass, the church was filled with an atmosphere of reverence and joy. The hymns were the heart of the celebration.

“O Come, Let Us Adore Him” resonated deeply. Hearing everyone’s voices united in adoration of baby Jesus was a moment of pure awe. The harmony of voices, rising and falling together, felt like a prayer that reached far beyond the church walls.

Then, there was the Marathi hymn, “Baal Yeshu La Paahu Chala” (“Let’s go and see baby Jesus”). It was simple yet profoundly moving, inviting us all to witness the miracle of Christ’s birth. The words carried a childlike wonder, reminding me of the joy and innocence that Christmas brings.

Music: The Soul of Celebration

Performing with the choir wasn’t just about singing; it was about experiencing the power of music to transform a space, to unite hearts, and to create a sacred atmosphere. Each note carried the weight of centuries of tradition and the lightness of newfound joy.

As we sang, I felt a sense of gratitude for being part of something so beautiful. The congregation’s voices joined ours, filling the church with a sound that was both uplifting and grounding. It was a reminder of the strength of community, the beauty of faith, and the timeless message of Christmas: love, peace, and hope.

A Celebration to Cherish

This Christmas, back in Khanvel, I discovered the profound joy of celebrating with my people in the place that shaped me. It wasn’t about grandeur or perfection; it was about togetherness, faith, and the music that bound us.

As the final hymn echoed through the church, I looked around at the smiling faces, the candles flickering in the soft breeze, and the sense of unity that filled the air. After the Mass, it was truly heartwarming to greet everyone with a joyful “Merry Christmas” and exchange smiles and warmth. The compliments my sister and I received for our performance were the icing on the cake, but more than the words, it was the genuine appreciation in their eyes that touched my heart. In that moment, I realized the true essence of Christmas: sharing joy, love, and the gift of togetherness. It was a memory that will stay with me, a reminder of how special it is to celebrate at home, surrounded by faith, music, and our cherished community.

This Christmas was more than a celebration; it was a homecoming for the soul.