In much of India, Easter Sunday passes by without mention. Markets remain open, schools continue, and there are no public holidays or national fanfare. But tucked into churches and homes across the country, small communities gather to remember something that we know is life-changing — the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
These quiet, faithful celebrations may not be seen by many, but their impact is undeniable.
Bold, Faithful Celebration
While Christians make up just 2–3% of India’s population, the body of Christ is active and growing. In regions like Kerala, Goa, Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and parts of Tamil Nadu, Easter Sunday is filled with joyful praise, sunrise worship services, and celebratory meals.
Much like here in the U.S., Indian believers observe Holy Week with Palm Sunday, Good Friday gatherings, and special Easter services. But the context is often far more difficult. In many places, Christians celebrate quietly not because they are ashamed, but because they are surrounded by neighbors who may not understand, or may even oppose, their faith. And yet they worship boldly, knowing that Jesus is alive and that resurrection power is at work.
Food is a key part of Easter joy in India just like for so many of us here in the US, it just looks and tastes a little dofferent. In Kerala, families gather around tables filled with appam (fermented rice pancakes) and savory stew. Hot cross buns and Easter eggs — a legacy of British influence — are also popular in many regions.
For many, Easter follows 40 days of Lent, where believers fast, reflect, and prepare their hearts for Resurrection Sunday. The season of sacrifice makes Easter morning a meaningful moment of deep joy after a time of spiritual preparation.
Celebrating Our Risen King
At REAP, we are privileged to partner with local believers and church planters who live out the truth of Easter not just on one Sunday, but every day. They carry the message of the risen Christ into villages, cities, and homes, even in places where His name is barely known.
This Easter, we invite you to pause and consider the beauty of Resurrection Sunday in India. Talk with your family about how Easter is celebrated around the world. Pray for boldness, joy, and protection for the believers in India who are celebrating whether in public or private, all with the faith that Christ is risen indeed.
Pray With Us
Pray for Indian believers who celebrated Easter with courage and joy.
Pray for the families of our church planters — that they would find strength in the hope of the resurrection.
Pray for new believers, especially those coming out of Hindu or tribal traditions, to grow in their understanding of Easter.
Pray that the Gospel message would spread in both bold and quiet ways — and that many more in India would come to know the risen Jesus.
From sunrise services in Kerala to quiet gatherings in rural villages, Easter in India may look different but the truth is the same. He is risen. He is risen indeed.
