"When it comes to Christmas in London, it's a mixed bag of traditions and flavours from all over the world. From roast turkey with Iranian sides to Indian curries and Hanukkah doughnuts. These are just some of the ways Londoners are celebrating the season. In Croydon, Pooja's Christmas morning begins with a traditional Gujarati breakfast before attention turns to presents."
"Pooja grew up in a Hindu Gujarati household in south London where Christmas was quiet and centred on family. She said: "We didn't really do presents. It was about being together playing games and eating vegetarian food like samosas and kachoris." Over time, those traditions have shifted. Since getting married and having children, Pooja has gradually expanded the menu. Chicken curry and rice are now a Christmas staple, and last year the family tried a Christmas roast for the first time."
"That balance plays out in small moments around the house. Last year, when Pooja's grandmother visited, she was shocked to see a Christmas tree in the lounge. Pooja remembers her son plugging in the lights and saying: "Look grandma it's just like Diwali." "His grandma laughed," Pooja said. Living a few miles away from Pooja are Deborah and her family. Deborah, who is Christian, remembers how Christmas was not part of her husband Omid's life when they first met."
Christmas in London brings together a range of cultural practices and foods as families blend heritage and seasonal rituals. In Croydon, a Gujarati family begins the day with a traditional Gujarati breakfast before opening presents, while children highlight gifts and festive food. Traditional vegetarian snacks like samosas and kachoris remain important even as menus expand to include chicken curry, rice and occasional roasts. Preserving Gujarati customs is seen as vital for passing on heritage, and everyday moments—such as a child comparing a Christmas tree to Diwali—illustrate cultural intersections. Other families adapt celebrations across faith and cultural backgrounds.
Read at www.bbc.com
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