By Raymond Kharmujai
Shillong, Dec 22 (IANS): Choir groups singing carols in churches and at public places and decorated shops are a common sight across Meghalaya as people gear up for the Christmas celebrations in this "abode of the clouds" where about 70 percent of its three milllion population practise Christianity.

There is a festive mood across the state and shops too are all decked up, hoping the celebrations for Christmas and New Year would increase their sales.

It is also the time to bond with loved ones.

In Meghalaya, people from all faiths join the celebrations, strengthening bonds of togetherness and mutual respect. "Everyone is on a celebration mode as this is the season of happiness and rejoicing," Mathew Sohtun told IANS.

Others look forward to getting back with their family and friends.

"Christmas is a time of the year one wants to be with family. I look forward to be at home with the family, celebrating the spirit of Christmas with my wife, sons and the extended family," David Syiemlieh, one of the seven members of the Union Public Service Commission, told IANS.

Netizens are busy networking with their relatives and friends to keep abreast of the celebrations.

The Central Puja Committee, the apex body of Hindu religious organisations in this predominantly Christian state, is organising an event to celebrate the Christmas.

"We have always celebrated Christmas with our Christian brethren in a different way. This Christmas season too we will be celebrating Christmas with the inmates of Shanti Bhawan, an old-age home, run by the congregation of Missionaries of Charity," Central Puja Committee leader J.L. Das said.

Almost all the houses are decked up with sparkling lights, candles on the window sills and lit-up pine trees in the yards.

"We are preparing to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year by lighting our house with Christmas trees and singing carols throughout the night," said Caroline Marbaniang. She is busy decorating her cozy home.

The festive season has also opened up a range of delicacies, boosting the sales at the eating joints here.

"Cakes, pies and puddings, smoked meat and vintage wine are some of the delicacies fancied here by Christmas revelers," said Diana Nongbri, who is running a guest house in Shillong.

"We are geared up to meet the expectations of the people," she said.