Meghalaya in the grip of Christmas festivities

Midnight services in churches across Meghalaya heralded the birth of Jesus Christ as tourists and locals joined in the festivities.
State capital Shillong was decked up for Christmas and the forthcoming New Year celebrations as government and private buildings as well as streets in the state capital were illuminated and decorated with Christmas trees, banners and festoons.
Special programmes including traditional Christmas carols and colourful processions rendered the air festive and solemn.
In a true spirit, a special programme for the hearing impaired believers was also organised in one of the oldest churches here at Police Bazaar.
Tourists enjoyed the weather as mercury dipped well below five degrees Celsius in the past few days.

Artistes and gospel bands enthralled crowds with traditional Christmas songs like 'Jingle Bells', 'Oh Holy Night' and 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town'.

Known for attractive illumination during Christmas and New Year, Garo Hills was abuzz with festivity even as Tura town was illuminated with different coloured lights.
Meghalaya Governor K K Paul wished people a joyful Christmas and hoped that the spirit and warmth of Christmas will bestow enduring peace, brotherhood, prosperity and happiness in the life of each citizen.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, on behalf of his cabinet colleagues, also wished people a very happy Christmas.