Whether it is about a wired copper tree or a rotating one, malls and hotels in the Capital have surely made the usual Christmas trees passe. The installations are not only adding meaning to celebrations but are some fine works of public art, says Riya Sharma
The chill in the air with the sound of Santa’s bell and red caps coupled with hot chocolate and candy sticks — we all have our ways of celebrating the birth of the Christ. We all would remember a time when decorating the Christmas tree was ‘the ultimate goal’ of the passing year and it would take us days to make it stand out. For the past few years, not only the way we celebrate the festival has changed but the way people try to make their tree exclusive has also changed.
If earlier, preparing a roast turkey with red wine and baking plum cakes or chocolate cookies was the traditional way of celebrating it, over the years the traditional sumptuous meal cooked by our mothers has been replaced by buffet at restaurants. With the extravagant buffets curated only for the day, restaurants took a step ahead and introduced packages and special gifts for their valuable customers. During our visit to many of these places, we found that the city is celebrating the Christmas fervour with trees made from copper wires, cut paper, waste material and what not.
We bring to you not just the Christmas trees but how they are working as art installations.
Magical butterflies
If you happen to go out for Christmas shopping by any chance then you would have definitely seen white trees instead of green ones. Taking cue from there, The Hyatt Regency has managed to install a white Christmas Tree of Hope at the lobby. Not only this, the tree is also made from approximately 1,000 golden and white butterflies which are perceived as ‘messenger of joy’. Prateek Jaiswal, manager housekeeping, Hyatt Regency Delhi shared, “Christmas brings joy and festivities all over the city. Here, we have evinced great creativity through decorations all over the hotel to delight our guests. Apart from other decorations, we have a white Christmas Tree of Hope at the lobby with approximately 1,000 golden and white butterflies, which are perceived as messengers of joy and happiness. Make a wish, allow the magical butterflies to carry your message and let the wish come true.”
The right use of ‘waste’
A unique tree made of waste material is the highlight of this year at le Méridien New Delhi. The 25 feet tall Christmas tree has been expertly made out of discarded CDs which have been collected from several departments of the hotel and also contributions from conscientious guests who care about the environment. The tree is a strong symbol of the hotel’s motto of managing e-waste and also adhering to the principle of ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.’
Wired tree
The magical and larger than life Christmas tree installation at The Imperial is put together by their French artists with floral experts. This Piece De Resistance is bejewelled with copper and gold wires. The tree looks different from any other Christmas tree and it spreads out the message that while the rain drops from the clouds around extend divinity and cheer, birds spread the message of harmony and love. The French artists, Mr and Mrs Groll shared, “With the splendour and glory, we wish that the spirit of love and peace fill our hearts and homes this festive season.”
The flower power
Rejoicing the festive cheer, The Claridges has a special way of immersing you in the festive spirit with their Poinsettias Christmas tree. Their tree is made up of flower pots and for a moment, we thought that it is a house made up of chocolates. Installed in the shape of a Christmas tree, this one is worth a visit. Adorned in the lobby of the hotel, Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are popular plants potted particularly during Christmas. The December birth flowers, symbolise cheer and success and are said to bring wishes of mirth and celebration.
Pluck the card
A special Santa tree at Global FoodFactory will have 50 folded offers on it. The first 50 customers can avail the offer on December 24 by taking out one chit of their choice containing many exciting offers. Whereas, Santa at Informal would be delighted to fill you up with Santa Barber shots. Drink up as much as you can and enjoy Santa’s shots.
Rotate it
For the first time, DlF Emporio has installed a rotating tree. Keeping the theme Snowflakes in mind, the 20 feet tall tree is golden in colour and is surrounded with lights, glitters and snowflakes. The iconic revolving tree is a symbol of hope and prosperity and goes well with the holiday theme. It is like going places and that is why they have a rotating tree.
My Christmas Story
SUNIl SETHI
Some like to hum carols while some bake plum cakes and there are others who celebrate their own way. This week we bring you cherished memories of noted people from every walk of life...because it’s Christmas
Childhood memories..
I went to Catholic school, St. Xavier's in Delhi. A Christmas mess was held in the school premises itself. Even though I am not a Christian by religion, there was a lot of reverence and respect for this festival and the rituals related to it.
This year's celebration…
This year, I will be going for a Christmas celebration at a farm house of Mr. Solemon, a Christian friend of mine, where at least 1000 guest are coming and it is organised every year. From the beginning of Christmas fair, I have been part of the Christmas fair which has been happening in Delhi for a very long time. Whether associated with YMCA (Young Mens Christian Association) or by any other Christian society. I have always been part of these parties because I have many Christian friends and I enjoy festival with them.
love for Christmas…
What I enjoy is being with my Christian friends and to see how they are celebrating it. lot of people call it as bada din, I have a lot of friends who are Catholic as well as Protestants from different segments of Christianity. It is rejoicing the birth of God and being together, friendship and love. This is what I feel is in the spirit of Christmas. Being part of the designer fraternity, it is holiday and party time for all of us.