From 'appam' to Easter eggs: Rediscovering the heart of the celebration

Growing up, Easter used to be an uncomplicated affair. Go to church, come home to some simple yet delicious food, spend time with friends and family, and get ready for the next day.

There were no advertisements for Easter brunches, egg decorating, or bunny-ear crafts. In fact, I found out what an Easter egg hunt was much later in life.

Easter services in church are usually held early in India, around 6am. That meant waking up early, catching a bus, and reaching church on time. But there were no complaints — we were excited to attend worship, meet friends, and exchange Easter greetings.

I see that same excitement today when we gather on Easter. After all, it is one of the happiest days on the Christian calendar — the day the faithful believe Jesus rose from the dead to give hope for the future.

Food at home has remained a staple on Easter: appam and chicken curry.

Appam is a popular Kerala preparation made with rice and coconut and is usually made on festive occasions in the central Kerala Christian belt. Combined with chicken curry or stew, it makes for a delicious meal.

Today, many children associate Easter with eggs, chocolate, and the Easter Bunny — traditions that began many centuries ago.

The egg symbolises new life, and Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus’ emergence from the tomb, according to History.com.

And what about the Easter Bunny? It’s the spring version of Santa Claus. Instead of presents in stockings, the Easter Bunny brings candy and eggs.

All of this remains tradition and feel-good fun—but without a change of heart, it loses its depth.

Easter isn’t just about celebration. It comes after Lent—a 40-day period of reflection, repentance, and self-discipline observed by many Christians. It’s meant to prepare the heart for Easter, encouraging believers to turn inward, let go of habits that no longer serve them, and draw closer to God. It should inspire the faithful to begin anew: to be changed people, ready to live differently.

As we celebrate another Easter, in the midst of wars and bloodshed, it’s time leaders across the globe make decisions in the spirit of Easter — to make this world a better place.

Have a blessed Easter.