Chennai, Apr 17 : Christians in Tamil Nadu today celebrated easter, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ after crucifixion, with religious fervour. Special prayers and services were held in all churches across the State. With the Sate government easing all COVID curbs in view of significant drop in daily caseload, thousands of faithfuls, including women and children, thronged the churches to attend the special midnight mass. The churches were tastefully decorated and illuminated to mark the occasion. Processions marking the resurrection were also held in churches. The largest congregation was held at the Santhome Basilica in the city and at the Shrine Velankanni Chuurch at Nagapattinam. Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin, leaders of various political parties, including AIADMK’s Edappadi K Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam, PMK Founder Dr S Ramadoss, his son and Rajya Sabha member Dr Anbumani, BJP State Chief K Annamalai, MDMK leader Vaiko also greeted the Christians on the occasion. In his greetings, the Governor said “on the holy and auspicious occasion of Easter, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all my Christian brothers and sisters.” “The Easter signifies the world on resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ who taught and blessed the people with a new path beautified by noble thoughts, kindness, compassion and forgiveness for salvation of souls all over”, he said, according to a Raj Bhavan comm que. “On this auspicious day, let us resolve ourselves to render noble service and to spread love through forgiveness towards all human beings for betterment of the Society to ensure harmony, success and happiness in our lives”, he added. Extending his wishes to the Christians, the Chief Minister said “on this occasion let us all take a pledge to create peaceful and ted society by removing the differences and hatred”. GV 1717