Hyderabad: Hymns are filled in the early morning air, as thousands of churches gather in Hyderabad on Easter Sunday to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with prayer, music and community fellowship.
From St Joseph’s Cathedral in Abids to CSI Wesley Church in Secunderabad, the faithful pre-dawn service (Defful) was early 4 a.m. Service starts with illuminating the symbolic Pascal candle, which means hope in 40-quarters of the day. During the Easter vigil, Royal Cardinal Poola Anthony celebrated St Mary’s Basilica in Secunderabad.
In the church of all the Saints in Trimulgherry, worshipers gather under the stars, followed by a festive breakfast featuring homemade hot cross bread. Volunteer and family baker Riny Melanie sold out quickly, saying the food was her contribution to the church community.
Pastor Karunakar addressed more than 600 participants, highlighting the resilient message of Easter. “Easter is not just the resurrection of Christ – it symbolizes our ability to rise through struggle,” he said.
The celebration continues to go beyond service, with the family hosting holiday lunches at Biryani, Mutton Curry and Cake. The kids participated in egg seeding and treasure hunts, while the city breakfast attractions were filled with post-service crowds.
Volunteers assisted believers in managing their morning busts, and briefly slowed down traffic in areas such as Yapral, Marredally, Abids and Mehdipatnam.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expanded Easter greetings through social media and wished citizens joy, peace and harmony.
