Lyzander E Sohkhlet encapsulates the essence of Christmas celebrations in Shillong as a culmination of culture, joy and revelry in full throttle.
In the quiet embrace of the misty hills of Shillong, where the rhythm of life is intertwined with the whispers of the pines, December unveils its own symphony. It’s that time of the year when the hills come alive with the spirit of Christmas, ,and I find myself drawn into the enchantment of this season once again. As I sit here to capture the essence of what Christmas means to the people of Shillong, a Christian majority state, the air is thick with anticipation, and the hills are decked in the warm hues of celebration.
Christmas in Shillong is a sensory feast, a tapestry woven with the sounds, smells, and
sights that define the festive season. As the sun begins its descent beyond the rolling hills, the town undergoes a metamorphosis. Streets, homes, and churches are adorned with a kaleidoscope of lights that twinkle against the misty canvas of the hills. It’s not merely decoration; it’s an illumination of hearts, a tangible manifestation of the joy that permeates the air. The aroma of Christmas is a potent potion that wafts through the hills, triggering a cascade of memories and festive spirit. It’s not just the scent of pine; it’s a melange of baked delights and traditional Meghalayan dishes. The bakeries, old and new, work tirelessly to fill the town with the heady scent of freshly baked cakes and pastries. Families, young and old, huddle around ovens, sharing stories and passing down recipes that have been guarded through generations. It’s not just about the food; it’s a sensory journey, a prelude to the feasts and sweet indulgences that will unfold in the days to come. And oh, the feasts!
The heartbeat of Christmas celebrations in Shillong resonates within the walls of the quaint churches that dot the landscape. The midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is not just a religious ceremony; it’s a communal gathering, a convergence of hearts and spirits. The hymns sung in harmony, the flickering candlelight, and the profound sense of community create an atmosphere that transcends the ordinary. It’s a moment of collective reflection, a pause to acknowledge the birth of Christ, and a time to connect with the divine. Post-Mass, the town erupts into a celebration of flavors. Families and friends come together for the grand feast, a culmination of culinary delights that mirror the rich tapestry of Meghalaya’s diverse cultural influences. The traditional Jadoh, with its aromatic blend of rice and meat, finds its place alongside Western-inspired dishes, creating a feast that is as diverse as the community it nourishes. Yet, the feast isn’t confined to homes. It spills into the bakeries that showcase an array of exquisitely crafted Christmas cakes. These cakes are not just confections; they are edible works of art, each telling a story of celebration and joy. The ceremonial cutting of the Christmas cake is a tradition that binds families and friends in a shared moment of sweetness and goodwill. The exchange of cakes becomes a symbol of unity, a gesture that transcends individual celebrations to encompass the entire community. As I walk through the town, the air thick with the lingering scents of baked goods and the distant strains of carols, I am reminded that Christmas in Shillong is more than a festival; it’s a state of being. It’s about coming together, sharing in the joys of the season, and weaving memories that will echo through time. So, as the lights twinkle in the hills, as the aroma of Christmas dances on the breeze, and as the feasts unfold in the churches and homes, Shillong becomes a sanctuary of celebration. Here, in the misty hills, Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar; it’s a symphony of love, peace, and togetherness that reverberates through every corner of our state. Merry Christmas, everyone!