The familiar, heartwarming sounds of Christmas have returned to the streets and neighbourhoods of Pune. As the December evenings grow cooler, the air fills with the rhythm of drums, soft guitar strums, and voices harmonising in traditional and joyful carols. This year, the tradition is witnessing a significant revival, led by enthusiastic youth from various churches who are carrying the festive spirit beyond their parishes and into the community.
A Surge in Youthful Energy and Participation
Across the city, young people are at the forefront of this festive movement. Ryan Fernandes, 29, from St. Xavier’s Church in Chinchwad, notes a marked increase in youth involvement. "Carol singing for me is about proclaiming the coming of Christ. It is a joyful way of sharing fellowship," he says. His group has made this year's sessions more vibrant with additional instruments and extensive house-to-house visits, ensuring inclusivity through multilingual songs.
This sentiment is echoed by Noel Vinod, 20, the choir head at Holy Trinity Church in Sangvi. For him, carolling is a powerful tool for spreading a universal message. "Singing Christmas carols means sharing the joy and message of the birth of Jesus. It brings happiness, peace and hope, and most importantly it brings people together," Vinod explains. His parish has consciously worked on involving more youth and children and expanding their reach to more neighbourhoods.
More Than Music: A Mission of Connection and Outreach
For these groups, carol singing is far more than a seasonal ritual; it's a purposeful mission of outreach and connection. Delissa Fernandes, 23, a Youth President, believes it carries a direct message of peace and hope into people's homes, fostering unity. Her group rehearses extensively, practising harmonies and selecting carols in English, Hindi, and Marathi to ensure everyone feels included.
A special focus this year for many parishes has been on visiting the elderly and the sick. "Holidays can be lonely for them. We want them to know they are not forgotten," Delissa adds. This thoughtful outreach aims to combat isolation during the festive season by bringing music and companionship directly to their doorsteps.
In Dapodi, Leonel Vaz, 31, Youth President and ChoirMaster at Holy Cross Church, describes the activity as a spiritual mission. "When we sing, we step out of our comfort zones and become messengers of joy," he states. Preparations begin weeks in advance, emphasising prayer, discipline, and teamwork to create an inclusive and reflective experience.
Bridging Generations and Digital Divides with Live Music
In today's fast-paced, digitally distracted world, the groups acknowledge a shift in public engagement. Delissa Fernandes observes that while people may be busier and children more reserved, the power of live music remains undiminished. "Music still breaks barriers," she says, noting that popular carols like ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ often draw people out, with many joining in dance.
Priscilla Bhalerao, 25, from Our Lady Consoler of the Afflicted Church (OLCA) in Pimpri, highlights how carols build unity beyond language and religion. Her group sings in multiple languages, including popular choices like ‘Ala Ho Ala Natal Ala’ in Marathi and ‘Charvahe Nache Jhumke’. "Live carols bring back memories and create emotional connections," she remarks.
Despite the challenges of modern lifestyles, the consensus among Pune's carol singers is clear: the human touch of live performance is irreplaceable. Ryan Fernandes encapsulates this belief, stating, "Nothing can replace the human touch. We don’t just sing, we interact, pray and connect." From the reflective notes of ‘Silent Night’ to the energetic beats of ‘Feliz Navidad’, these voices on Pune's streets are diligently keeping the authentic spirit of Christmas alive and resonant.
