By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 23: Ahead of the Christmas festivities, Governor Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar on Tuesday visited the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians at Laitumkhrah and conveyed a simple yet heartfelt message, wishing a peaceful and joyous Christmas to the Christian community of the state.
During the Governor’s visit, the church choir presented Christmas hymns and songs, creating a festive and reverent atmosphere in keeping with the spirit of the season. The Governor lauded the church and appreciated the choir members for their soulful performance.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice President of the Catholic Association of Shillong, Barnabas Nangbah thanked the Governor for sparing his time to visit the church during Christmas and for extending his warm wishes to the entire Christian community of Meghalaya, not just members of the Catholic Church.
He also highlighted that it has been a tradition for the Governor to visit the Cathedral Church from time to time. In view of Christmas, elaborate arrangements were made to welcome the Governor. He further noted that the Cathedral Church often receives visits from several dignitaries, including Ambassadors, from different places.
The Governor’s visit was seen as a gesture of goodwill and unity, reinforcing the message of peace, harmony, and togetherness during the Christmas season.
Meanwhile, Shillong is all set to celebrate Christmas as the city dons a vibrant festive look filled with joy and excitement.
The streets and the markets are illuminated, drawing large crowds of shoppers who are busy preparing for the celebrations. From Christmas decorations and gifts to warm winter wear, the markets are buzzing with activity, perfectly capturing the cheerful spirit of the season.
While traditional markets like Iewduh remain crowded, Police Bazar has come alive with music, lights and lively conversations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. For the first time in many years, the entire stretch of Police Bazar is free of hawkers, allowing people to enjoy leisurely walks, click selfies, shoot videos and shop comfortably.
Shopkeepers say sales have improved significantly this year, with both locals and visitors contributing to the festive rush.
Amit Agarwal, proprietor of Desire Clothing Shop on GS Road, said business has been quite impressive. “The best part of Shillong is that everyone celebrates Christmas. Whether rich or poor, everyone comes out to shop and enjoy the festival in the true spirit,” he said.
Agarwal added that online shopping does not affect local businesses much during the festive season. “People don’t want to risk delayed deliveries or size issues. They prefer coming to the shop, checking the trends and buying directly rather than dealing with exchanges,” he added.
Apart from the usual fanfare at Khyndai Lad, the hawkers’ market inside the MUDA parking lot is also witnessing a massive rush, offering everything from shoes to clothing at affordable prices. Aafaque, proprietor of the popular Shoe Corner on GS Road, said sales have been slightly better than average. He expressed hope that business would pick up further on Wednesday, the last day before Christmas.
However, not all shopkeepers share the same optimism. One trader, who wished to remain anonymous, said online shopping has caused a major decline in retail sales. “If there were no online shopping, sales would have been at least 50 per cent higher,” he said, recalling that he recorded his best-ever sales during a past festive season when data services were suspended and people relied entirely on local markets.
Meanwhile, Shillong, which usually witnesses a massive influx of tourists during the festive season, has seen mixed trends in hotel occupancy.
Parambir Singh Sehdave, president of the Federation of Shillong Hotels, said the last couple of days were not very encouraging.
“Despite the crowds, occupancy rates were not optimal,” he said, adding that the situation is expected to improve from Wednesday and continue till January 1-2, with more tourists likely to arrive to celebrate Christmas and New Year in the city.
