Almost every one of us will know a carol or two. From the cheerful ‘Fa la la la la’ to the exquisite ‘Silent Night’, carolling is the most important part of spreading the Christmas cheer.
Benjamin Stephen, associate pastor of Crossroad Church, Kothanur, says the choir performs in street corners, shopping centres or markets. “In the past, when the king wanted something announced, his messengers would go around announcing it in public spaces. That’s what inspires us. Carolling is announcing the birth of Jesus to the world. We’ve received mixed reactions – some walk away, many listen, some stay back to ask questions about what we do and why.”
Fr. Lawrence, parish priest of Sadupadesha Church, Hennur, says they only visit homes of church members. “We don’t want to force ourselves on anyone. But we do organise carolling in each area. The Hasanath College invites us to sing carols every year on their premises. We are also invited by people in the neighbourhood so we set up a stage in an open area, where the whole neighbourhood comes and joins in with our celebrations. There is so much love to share and what better way to do it than sing carols and wish one another peace, joy and hope?”
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And families prepare for the carollers. Susan Paul, a homemaker from Wilson Garden, says that everyone in the house gets excited during Christmas. She decorates her home with Christmas wreaths, bells and streamers, and even sets up a crib displaying the Nativity scene of the birth of Jesus in a stable with Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, and animals. “But the most exciting part is preparing goodies for the carol groups that visit us. We usually bake gala-galas and cookies with cake. Some years we even serve wine and give them dinner. There’s always a sense of satisfaction hosting singers and seeing them leave tummy full,” said Ms. Paul.
Tejonanda Kumar, an independent pastor of a church in Electronics City, says they have a Kannada carolling group that also visits people living in the city outskirts and rural areas. "We go carolling in the evenings once people are back from work. We try and make the experience a little different by narrating short stories and reading from the scriptures. The idea is to spread peace, love and forgiveness, which is a central part of Christ’s teachings. We visit any home that welcomes us, sing, pray and wish them peace and joy. Many non-Christians also welcome us with open arms, which shows that Christmas cheer is for all.
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Basavaraj Sajjanar, a school teacher in Electronics City, says it was curiosity that led him to invite Tejonanda’s carolling team home this year. “It’s our first experience and we were so touched by their love. They sang songs, narrated stories and even prayed for us. I felt this was more about love, peace and joy than religion.” He adds: “We had no clue what is served traditionally to carol singers. With all our love we served them hot upma, some cake baked in our neighbourhood bakery, and tea.”
Naheed Rana, from Sena Vihar, is enthusiastic about having carol singers home. “I studied in a convent and knew all about carolling. I never felt it was about religion. It’s so touching to have complete strangers knocking on your door, singing songs and wishing you wellness and joy. The best part is people from all walks of life come carolling. If I am aware that a group is coming, I prepare special snacks and drinks for them. In case it’s a surprise visit, I offer them what I have.”