Starting from Ash day on Wednesday, the Christian community's 40-day fasting period i.e. Lent has began. For next 40 days, the members of the
community will abstain from various pleasures that include eating rich foods, participating in joyous occasion etc.

The 40 days of mourning undertaken by the community is symbolic of the events that occurred with Jesus Christ before being resurrected.
Marking the significant aspects that occurred between these 40 days is observed with great fervour by the community. Commencing with Ash
Wednesday, a series of activities are held until that of the Easter.

"Lent is a period for abstinence that prompts parishioners to reflect upon their behaviour and deeds in view with the commandments given by
Jesus Christ. Post Ash Wednesday, there is Palm Sunday that marks the solemn entrance of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. Following this is the
Mondi Thursday which is a three-day event that starts with the great mass of the last supper of the Lord. It's also the day when Christ gave the
commandment of love and service. The Passion of Christ i.e. the pain he endured following his capture and the crucification is observed on
Good Friday. The grand completion of Lent occurs with the resurrection of Jesus Christ from his grave on Holy Saturday," Parish Priest of
Sacred Heart Church Joaquin D'Costa said.

Commencing the beginning of this auspicious occasion was the ceremonial ritual of marking each one's forehead with a cross by using ash.
Assembled in a group, the parishioners awaited their turn to be marked with the sign of cross on their forehead by their priest. "The Ash
Wednesday commemorates the popular Christian belief that we were born from Ash and to Ash will we return. The Ash Wednesday is a means
to humble one self and direct our action that would please the Lord. From hereon, the activities of the community will be subdued and largely have
a mourning atmosphere until that of Easter," said Vashi resident Rohan Sequiera.

Sameera Kapoor/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication