India Prepares For Joyful Celebrations On Christmas Eve — IN PICS

A sand sculpture of Santa Claus made with onions and sand at Puri, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023. (PTI Photo)

The heightened security measures in Delhi in view of Christmas also extend to malls and markets that witness increased footfall during Christmas. (PTI Photo)

People visit the illuminated Sacred Heart Cathedral Church on Christmas eve, in New Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northeast) Joy Tirkey stated that 1,000 police personnel, along with additional forces, would be deployed to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of celebrations, PTI reported. Security has been intensified around churches and various public spaces to maintain law and order during the festive period. (PTI Photo)

We will have deployment of 1,000 police personnel, along with additional forces. All the police officials will be on the road on these two occasions to ensure that law and order is maintained and celebrations are held smoothly, New Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northeast) Joy Tirkey told PTI. (PTI Photo)

The historic Ridge decorated with the colorful lights for the christmas and winter carnival celebrations, in Shimla, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023. (PTI Photo)

An emplyoee dressed as Santa Claus fills fuel in a bike at a filling station, ahead of Christmas, in Surat, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023. (PTI Photo)

A man dressed as Santa Claus feeds seagulls on Tapi river, ahead of Christmas, in Surat, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023. (PTI Photo)