Like most festivals, following traditions and rituals form an integral part of Christmas for us. While for some it’s hanging up mistletoes and making grottos, for others it might be roasting a turkey on Christmas day or going out carol singing. Though the origins of most of these rituals are hidden in the mists of time, we still follow them as they are the “right thing to do” and have a great time at it.

We asked some youngsters about their Christmas rituals and got varied answers. Aleena Alice, a student of St. Francis College, says, “We put up mistletoe each year during the festive season. We believe that if we make a wish under mistletoe on Christmas, the wish will come true. I also light candles near the Christmas tree every day of the Christmas season. We believe that this will bring light into our lives.”

Another youngster, Mary Joseph, says, “I make it a point to put up the Christmas tree on December 1 and we say the ‘Christmas Tree prayer’ after it’s decorated. We believe that by doing so, God’s love will shine on us.”

For student Anjali Chakraborty, Christmas means mince meat pies. “I am not a firm believer but my family and friends observe this particular tradition very religiously. They believe that eating mince meat pies brings good luck and ensures a prosperous year ahead. They keep stuffing me with pies even though I am not very keen on it,” she says.

“Christmas is all about celebrations, putting up a Christmas tree, hanging up a star and eating delicious food. After putting up the Christmas tree I go find the holly. I believe it is a sign for the future. I also light lots of candles on Christmas eve,” says Hannan Saleem.

While for most, the season is to be jolly, for many others, Christmas is about giving and sharing and spreading the word of peace. Though many might frown upon following traditions and rituals for their own sake, if something good comes out of it then why not just go ahead and do it?