On December 25, 2025, the serene valley of Kashmir transformed into a festive wonderland as Christmas celebrations at Holy Family Catholic Church in Srinagar brought together hundreds of faithful and curious visitors. The historic belfry of the 129-year-old church echoed with rhythmic chimes, signaling the start of special prayers and religious services. This year, the festivities took on a unique local flavor, blending global traditions with the rich cultural heritage of the region to create an atmosphere of unparalleled peace and brotherhood.
Holy Family Catholic Church Srinagar Comes Alive with Festive Spirit
Located in the heart of the city on Maulana Azad Road, the Holy Family Catholic Church became the focal point for the Christian minority and tourists alike. The church premises were adorned with twinkling LED lights, colorful wreaths, and traditional Christmas trees. Interestingly, this year’s decorations featured a distinct “Kashmiri touch,” utilizing intricate paper-mâché bells and ornaments crafted by local artisans. This fusion of styles not only enhanced the beauty of the Christmas celebrations at Holy Family Catholic Church but also symbolized the communal harmony that defines the valley.
During the midnight mass and morning prayers, the church reached its full capacity of nearly 200 people, with many more gathering in the courtyard to join the carols. Father Dominic Savio, the Parish Priest, led the congregation in prayers focused on global peace and the well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The presence of tourists from cities like Delhi and Mumbai added to the vibrancy, as they joined locals in lighting candles and exchanging sweets under the watchful security arrangements provided by the district administration.
#Watch | Christmas bells ring in Srinagar as Holy Family Catholic Church comes alive with celebrations and prayers#Christmas #Srinagar pic.twitter.com/crsTC9VtYz
— Greater Kashmir (@GreaterKashmir) December 25, 2025
Special Prayers for Peace and Unity in the Valley
The significance of the event was amplified by the participation of people from various religious backgrounds, reflecting the secular ethos of the region. According to Greater Kashmir News, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended their heartiest greetings, emphasizing that the teachings of Jesus Christ regarding love and compassion continue to inspire humanity. These messages of unity were echoed inside the church, where the ringing of the massive bell—a tradition restored in recent years—served as a powerful reminder of resilience and shared faith.
Beyond the religious services, the Christmas celebrations at Holy Family Catholic Church stimulated local activity in nearby markets like Polo View and Residency Road. Shops and bakeries reported a surge in demand for Christmas cakes and decorative items, signaling a positive boost for the local economy. As the day progressed, the joyous sounds of “Merry Christmas” filled the air, proving that despite the biting cold of the ‘Chillai Kalan’ period, the warmth of the festive spirit remains undiminished in Srinagar.
As the sun set over the Dal Lake, the illuminated facade of the Holy Family Catholic Church stood as a beacon of hope and coexistence. The 2025 celebrations successfully showcased Kashmir’s ability to host inclusive international festivals, leaving both locals and visitors with memories of a truly “white” and peaceful Christmas. With the success of this year’s event, officials are already looking forward to even larger gatherings as tourism continues to thrive in the valley.