"Hundreds gathered in Fort Kochi on Thursday to catch a glimpse of the centuries-old 'mother of all Christmas trees', once again illuminated for the festive season. Footage shows visitors taking selfies and gathering beneath the towering tree, which was decorated with at least 1,500 string lights, along with baubles, clay bells and Santa Claus figurines. A star crowns the top of the tree. The rain tree became a Christmas icon after a group of local boys, who once played cricket beneath it, decided to decorate it during the festive season. It entered its silver jubilee year as a Christmas tree in 2024–25. “All of us were born and brought up in Fort Kochi, and Veli Ground was our favourite hangout. We used to decorate the streets during Christmas and organise funds to distribute gifts to underprivileged children,” said Sanoj PS, secretary of Knights United Sports Club, Fort Kochi, the group that has overseen the decoration of the tree. “In the year 2000, one of us had a brainwave. We decided to decorate the rain tree, which has stood witness to all our shenanigans,” he added. Standing around 80 feet tall, the tree is believed to be the oldest of its kind in the port city and is considered the largest natural Christmas tree in India. Over the years, it has become an enduring symbol of Christmas in Kochi, drawing locals and tourists alike each festive season."