Bhopal's unprivileged children meet Santa Claus

Bhopal, Dec.19 (ANI): Thousands of unprivileged children congregated at the Lal Parade Grounds in Bhopal, to meet Santa Claus on Saturday.

Twenty-six years ago, Mother Teresa had initiated the practice of donation at the onset of the Christmas season. The practice is still continued by her organisation 'Missionaries of Charity'.

Children hugged and shook hands with Santa Claus, who arrived in a chariot.

Children were presented with gifts of shawls, soaps and books.

"Humanity, which has got divided because of religions, breaking all such barriers we need to work for humanity. On this occasion, once in a year we give something to the needy," said Sushila Ghosh, the organiser.

In another part of the city, a committee of 70 members is preparing the biggest star for the celebrations on Christmas Day.

The star will be installed at the Seva Sadhan church along with an exhibition of 2,000 paintings inspired on the life of Jesus Christ.

"It is Madhya Pradesh's biggest star, it is a 20 feet tall star. A committee of 70 people is making this star and the work is almost done. In one or two days it will be over," said Anand Matangul, a Catholic Church spokesperson.

"The motive of making the star is that we have decided to organize an exhibition inspired on Jesus Christ's life where 10-15 cribs will be put on display. And also around 2,000 pictures inspired on him will be showcased," he added.

Christmas will be celebrated across the world on December 25. By Ram Chandra Sahu (ANI)