New Delhi: As yet another Christmas has arrived amid the COVID-19 pandemic, greetings have started pouring in with the country's political leaders and top brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting the people on the occasion.
In his message on social media, Modi prayed for harmony and urged people to recall the life and noble teachings of Jesus Christ.
"Christmas greetings to everyone! We recall the life and noble teachings of Jesus Christ, which placed topmost emphasis on service, kindness and humility. May everyone be healthy and prosperous. May there be harmony all around," PM Modi tweeted.
Additionally, President Ram Nath Kovind called for adopting the teachings of Jesus Christ in our lives on the occasion.
"Merry Christmas to fellow citizens, especially to our Christian brothers and sisters, in India and abroad. On this joyous occasion, let us resolve to build a society that is based on the values of justice and liberty and adopt the teachings of Jesus Christ in our lives," tweeted Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Meanwhile, Omicron, the new coronavirus strain has disrupted holiday travel during the Christmas weekend, with tracking website Flightaware.com reporting over 2,300 flight cancellations around the world.
Several states in the country, including capital Delhi, have banned Christmas celebrations in view of a rise in Omicron cases.
Gatherings of five or more will not be allowed in Maharashtra between 9 pm and 6 am, the state government has said. Haryana and Delhi have also tightened restrictions this Christmas, though Delhi has allowed places of worship to remain open.