SHILLONG, Dec 24 - Most of the streets in the state capital have been lit up with decorative lights giving it a bright uplift while some churches have put up makeshift tents for the Christmas day celebrations here tomorrow.
Police Bazaar, one of the busiest parts in the city, has also been lit up. Small decorated vans are constantly moving around the city, playing Christmas carols. The old Assembly complex has similarly been lit up with decorative lights and stars.
Throughout this week, there was a huge rush at Police Bazaar and the traffic snarl has been nightmarish. Most of the shops in the area and other parts of the city are doing brisk business. The bakeries here are also working overtime to cater to a large number of people buying cakes for the celebrations.
Santa masks, headbands for girls and a lot of Christmas-related items are being sold at street corners by the hawkers. Small pine trees and Mistletoe are also being sold by the hawkers at different parts of the city.
One of the biggest attractions here is the 120-year-old tree at the All Saints Cathedral. The tree stands 80 feet tall, inside the church premises, has been ritually lit up from top to bottom and has been one of the attractions every year during Christmas.
The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians at Dhankheti has been similarly decked up for the grand festival. This church is one of the major attractions in the State, especially during Christmas.
Meanwhile, Governor Tathagata Roy and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma have greeted the people of the state on this occasion. Roy, in his greetings, hoped that �the spirit and warmth of Christmas will bestow peace brotherhood, prosperity and happiness to all�.
Sangma, in his greetings, said: �As friends and families celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, let us imbibe the spirit of love, hope, peace, compassion and forgiveness.�
