A spirit of yuletide pervaded the air as faithful packed decked up churches for prayers with midnight mass, resonance of carols and merriment on Christmas day.

People, attired in their best, bonded in prayer and mirth as sparkling Christmas trees and colourful gift items adorned marketplaces which wore a festive look.

In New Delhi, stores stocking Xmas merchandise were flooded with shoppers as exchange of greetings and gifts, community feasts and colourful processions marked the occasion. Traditional Christmas carols rendered the air festive with gospel bands enthralling the merry-makers with songs like 'Jingle Bells', 'Oh Holy Night' and 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town'.