Mamata Banerjee prays for prosperity at midnight mass in Kolkata Cathedral

Christmas festivities swept across West Bengal, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading celebrations and emphasizing the need for peace and harmony. Thousands of people enjoyed a day out, visiting tourist spots, and midnight masses in adorned churches saw hundreds offering prayers.

"I had the honour of attending the midnight prayers at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary. Seeking the Archbishop's blessings was deeply enriching and I offered prayers for everyone's prosperity and well-being," she posted on Facebook.

The CM said in a message on X: "May the enchanting spirit of the festive season bestow upon you the gifts of peace, harmony and happiness.The Christmas spirit illuminated Bengal's lanes filling our hearts with hope and joy... Wishing you all a wonderful year ahead."

As the day set in, thousands flocked to Kolkata's traditional tourist spots such as Alipore Zoo, Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Eco Park and Millennium Park, among others.
Mamata Banerjee attended a midnight mass at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary.

 Meanwhile, two big hotels -- ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar -- were also decked up with traditional 'Alpona' patterns and leaves of the Sal tree respectively on the occasion of Christmas, a statement said. At ITC Royal Bengal, intricate patterns were drawn across driveways, lobbies and staircases. ITC Sonar was decorated with Sal tree leaves, along with jute and 'gamcha', signifying the heritage of the state.