Good Friday, marked as the day Jesus Christ was crucified, is a religious holiday observed by Christians across the world, and India is no exception. Despite being predominantly a Hindu country, India has a significant Christian population who solemnly commemorate this day. Special prayer meetings and masses are held in churches throughout the country. Good Friday is a public holiday in India and is observed with great respect and humility.
In India, Good Friday celebrations are distinct in different regions, reflecting cultural diversity. For instance, Christians in southern India, where a larger part of the Christian population resides, participate in fasting and engage in acts of charity on this day. In many churches, the crucifixion is reenacted to pay homage to Christ's sacrifices. The believers throng the churches for the night vigil and also to kiss the cross, a symbolic representation of Jesus Christ.
Good Friday in India is also noticeable because of its silence. Shops and businesses are usually closed, and the day is spent in prayer, meditation, and reflection on the agony and suffering of Christ. Large processions are carried out in some parts of the country, while in others, the streets remain quiet, imbued with the solemnity of the occasion. Despite religious diversity, Good Friday's observance underscores India's respect towards all religions and their holy days.