Christians celebrate Easter in India

Christians across India Sunday celebrated Easter and organized special prayers in churches to mark the festival, officials said.

Easter signifies resurrection of Jesus Christ after crucifixion and death, more than 2,000 years ago.

The major celebrations and prayer ceremonies were held in southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Goa.

Media reports said the festival is being celebrated with great pomp and enjoyment by Christians all over the world.

"Special prayers and holy masses are being held from midnight at the world famous Annai Velankanni shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Health," India's state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) reported.

According to the broadcaster, thousands of pilgrims from Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra apart from Tamil Nadu attended the special morning mass.

The shroud was removed from the Holy Cross and special prayers were held with Christians holding paschal candles.

Easter also signifies the culmination of 40-day lent period of fasting for Christians.

As part of celebrations, Christians take sumptuous meal and offer gifts and Easter eggs to friends and relatives.

"Festivities aside, I try to keep on reminding my children about the real story behind the Easter, The story of Jesus and the resurrection and the lessons thereof," D. Joseph, a resident of Tamil Nadu, told Xinhua.

Indian president, vice president and prime minister have extended greeting to the people on the occasion of Easter.

"The sacred day of Easter is a constant reminder of Jesus Christ's endless love for humanity and inspires people to follow his ideals of truth, sacrifice and forgiveness," reads a message from Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. Endit