A wave of festive joy is sweeping through the tribal hamlets of southern Assam, encompassing the Barak Valley districts and Dima Hasao, as Christmas celebrations gain full momentum. This cheer persists undiminished despite a noticeable chill that has enveloped the region over recent days.
Churches and Villages Adorned in Festive Colours
Churches belonging to various denominations, including Presbyterians, Baptists, Roman Catholics, and the Salvation Army, are brilliantly decorated with lights and vibrant colours. A particularly striking example is the picturesque Hmarkhawlien village in Cachar district, located near the Manipur border.
This village, predominantly inhabited by the Hmar community, represents the largest concentration of Christians in the Barak Valley. Most residents are Baptists and are primarily engaged in pineapple cultivation. The hamlet boasts over ten churches, such as the Assembly of God, Evangelical Free Church of India, and Four Square Gospel Church, all now illuminated and bustling with activity as Christmas Eve approaches.
Carol Singing, Feasts, and Cross-Border Shopping
The sounds of carol singing, which commenced days ago, filled the air through Wednesday night until midnight, marking the traditional celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Elaborate preparations are also underway for grand community feasts scheduled for Christmas Day.
In Silchar, the commercial hub, markets have experienced a significant surge in shoppers over the past weeks. Notably, many buyers have flocked from the neighbouring state of Mizoram to complete their Christmas purchases here. The Baptist Church in Silchar, which commands the largest following in the valley, has organised a series of religious and cultural events for the occasion.
Festivities Extend to Dima Hasao District
The Christmas spirit is equally vibrant in the hill district of Dima Hasao. Churches in areas like Songpijang, Muolhoi, Fiangpui, and the CHT Synod area near Don Bosco in Haflong—the district headquarters—have been beautifully adorned. They feature classic Christmas trees, paintings, and an array of decorative lights, contributing to the region's celebratory atmosphere.
This widespread celebration highlights the deep-rooted Christian traditions in these parts of Assam, showcasing a community united in faith and festive preparation despite the cold weather.
