Christmas in India: Traditions, Food & Customs
Despite Christians making up only about 2.3% of India's population, Christmas (known as Bada Din or Big Day) is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. Indian Christmas blends Western traditions with local customs, using banana trees and mango leaves for decorations instead of pine trees.
Last updated: February 2026
Despite Christians making up only about 2.3% of India's population, Christmas (known as Bada Din or Big Day) is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. Indian Christmas blends Western traditions with local customs, using banana trees and mango leaves for decorations instead of pine trees.
Christmas Traditions in India
Midnight Mass
Churches across India hold midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, drawing large crowds. The services are followed by celebrations, fireworks, and feasting.
Decorating with Banana and Mango
In the absence of traditional fir trees, Indians decorate banana trees and mango trees for Christmas, stringing them with lights and ornaments.
Star of Bethlehem Lanterns
In the southern state of Kerala, colorful star-shaped lanterns are hung outside homes and churches, illuminating the streets throughout December.
Traditional Christmas Food in India
Christmas Cake (Plum Cake)
Rich fruit cake soaked in rum is the most popular Indian Christmas treat, with preparations beginning weeks in advance to soak the dried fruits in alcohol.
Kulkuls
Deep-fried sweet dough curls coated in sugar — a traditional Goan and Mangalorean Christmas treat shaped by hand.
Biryani
Fragrant spiced rice with meat — many Indian Christian families serve biryani as the main course of their Christmas lunch.
Unique Christmas Customs
- Decorating banana and mango trees instead of pine trees
- Star lanterns hung outside homes in Kerala
- Christmas is called Bada Din (Big Day) across India
- Rangoli (colorful floor patterns) created at the entrance of homes for Christmas
Explore more Christmas traditions
Who Brings Gifts in India?
In India, gifts are traditionally brought by Christmas Father (Bada Din Baba). This unique tradition reflects centuries of cultural and religious heritage.
Get Christmas travel inspiration
Discover the best Christmas destinations, markets, and holiday events worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Christmas celebrated in India?
What is the Santa Claus equivalent in India?
What do people eat for Christmas in India?
How do you say "Merry Christmas" in India?
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