The crib of baby Jesus at the Roy household in Chennai
The Roy household in Chennai's Abhiramapuram greets visitors with a different kind of a crib this Christmas season. Its nativity scene has shifted from Bethlehem to Chennai's very own Mylapore and baby Jesus is pictured at a bus shelter. The makers' idea is to show how it would be if baby Jesus were to be born in this IT hub. So there is no snow, no shepherds and no hay.
Kavitha Roy, an administration professional, says "There's hardly any cow shed in Chennai as it has become a fast moving city. A bus stop is the only place where none would object Joseph and Mary to take shelter for Jesus to be born".
The 8x8 feet crib has recreated Chennai's cultural hub. Mrs Roy and her husband, who spent 15,000 rupees working with their team for over a week to create the crib, say there's a deeper sign of communal harmony in choosing the location. In the backdrop are Chennai's famous landmarks -- the Kabaaleshwarar Temple, the Jumma Mosque, the Light House and the Santhome Church.
The head of the family, Roy Varghese, explains, "We live so peaceful in Chennai. But we have also become selfish. Even today, none might come to help Jesus with a place. For instance, we don't help a person who met with a road accident. That person could be Jesus."
The illuminated desi crib has drawn many neighbours and visitors. One of them said, "Its also a refreshing way to reflect on the story of Christmas in contemporary context away from the colour and glitter that often dominate this season".