Thiruvananthapuram: Christians in the State Sunday observed the Palm Sunday, commemorating the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem ahead of his crucifixion and resurrection, marking the beginning of the Holy Week.
Faithful congregated in churches of various Christian denominations across the state and took out processions carrying branches of palm, symbolising the reception given to Jesus when he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey.
Holding blessed palm fronds in their hands, the devotees, irrespective of age barriers, also took out processions in villages and towns.
According to the Christian belief, 'Palm Sunday', known as 'oshana njayar' in local parlance, is observed to mark the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem where people greeted him by waving palm branches.
The faithful will observe fast and hold special prayers in the next week till Easter Sunday on April 16, marking Christ's resurrection after crucifixion on April 14, Good Friday.