Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings on Good Friday, accentuating the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In a post on X, the Prime Minister stated, 'Good Friday reminds us of Jesus Christ's sacrifice.
May this day further deepen the values of harmony, compassion and forgiveness. May brotherhood and hope guide us all.”
Across India, devotees observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and religious processions commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, people gathered to offer prayers and participate in special services marking the day.
In Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, thousands joined the traditional ‘Way of the Cross’ procession, a ritual retracing Christ’s journey to Calvary. This Catholic devotion, also called the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis or Via Dolorosa), consists of 14 steps that honour the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Observed during Lent on Fridays, it involves reflecting on key moments from Christ’s condemnation to burial, allowing believers a spiritual journey alongside Him.
Participants carried crosses and chanted hymns, maintaining a reflective and respectful atmosphere throughout the march. In Delhi, prayers took place at Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Gol Dak Khana and St Thomas Church, RK Puram Sector 2, where devotees observed Good Friday with prayer services.
Good Friday holds significant importance for Christians worldwide, including those in India, observed on the Friday before Easter, which begins with Palm Sunday and concludes with Easter Sunday. The day commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus, who was betrayed by his disciple Judas, leading to his capture by the Romans. The Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate, ordered Jesus’ execution. Jesus carried his cross through Jerusalem to Calvary, the site of crucifixion.
Following Good Friday, Easter is celebrated, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after His crucifixion.