Ranchi's popular waterfalls transformed into vibrant hubs of Christmas celebration as thousands gathered to mark the festive occasion. Major natural attractions like Hundru Falls, Johna Falls, and Dassam Falls reported exceptionally high visitor numbers, with families and tourist groups choosing these picturesque locations to enjoy the holiday together.
Hundru Falls Emerges as Festive Favourite
The day began early at Hundru Falls, which quickly became one of the most crowded destinations. A steady stream of visitors, including families, young friends, and tourists from neighbouring towns, arrived from the morning hours. They spent the day basking in the pleasant winter weather, surrounded by nature's beauty.
The area was alive with activity as people engaged in photography, shared picnic meals, and relaxed near the cascading waters. For many, this has become an annual ritual. Rakesh Kumar, visiting with his family, stated, "Christmas is about spending time together, and coming to Hundru has become a tradition for us." Another visitor, Anjali Verma, shared, "It feels refreshing to celebrate Christmas in nature. The crowd adds to the festive mood."
Local Vendors Enjoy Brisk Festive Business
The surge in holidaymakers translated into a significant economic boost for local entrepreneurs. Temporary stalls set up near the waterfalls, selling tea, snacks, and refreshments, did roaring business throughout the day as crowds continued to swell.
Sunil Mahto, a snack vendor at Hundru Falls, highlighted the importance of such festive days. "Festive days like Christmas are very important for us. Footfall is high and sales are good," he explained. A nearby tea seller echoed this sentiment, noting that visitors tend to stay longer during holidays, which naturally increases the demand for food and drinks.
Similar Scenes at Johna and Dassam, Police Manage Traffic
The festive spirit was not confined to Hundru Falls alone. Johna Falls and Dassam Falls witnessed comparable scenes, with steady crowds and increased vehicular movement on the approach roads throughout Christmas. To manage the situation and ensure visitor safety, police personnel were strategically deployed in these areas to regulate traffic flow.
The collective turnout at these natural landmarks underscored a growing trend of celebrating festivals away from urban centres, in the lap of nature, while simultaneously supporting local economies.