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Themed: A replica of Velankanni Church made by Swamy in 2007. |
Although the terror attacks on Mumbai and the ongoing economic slowdown has dampened the festive mood in the city, there are a few people who are, in their own way, trying to restore the celebratory spirit.
On such man is 76-year-old Anthony Swamy, who is partly paralysed for the last six years. However, his physical limitation has neither restricted his faith nor his atypical creativity.
"The spirit of Christmas should not die and that's what I try to do very year," said the resident of Sangharalay Society at D P Road. He added, "I try to spread the message of Jesus Christ in my own way. Though the entire process is time consuming, it gives me immense peace and satisfaction."
Swamy has been making cribs out of wax, straw and even cardboard for more than 30 years now and has put them on display in his colony. Moreover, his exquisite trail and his themes have been different every Christmas.
His theme for this year is a star (as it was the bright star of Bethlehem that guided the shepherds and the three Kings to baby Jesus in the manger), which conveys a very relevant message Peace on Earth. However, he has kept his creation a bit simpler and modest, though inspirational, due to the current mood.
Also, a Parish member of Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Church at Tadiwalla Road, Swamy had made a 27-foot candle that housed the crib in the year 2006 while in 2007, it was the holy Velankanni Church.
Dennis, his son who has been witness to his creations every year, said, "Watching dad making cribs with sheer dedication inspires me a lot. Even though his health has been delicate, it's God's grace that provides him the strength."
