Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first leaders to extend Good Friday wishes to people across the country this morning.
According to Christian beliefs, Jesus was crucified on Good Friday. The reason why this day is called "good" is because Christianity believes that by sacrificing his own life, Jesus washed his people of their sins with his blood and rose again three days later on Sunday - which is celebrated as Easter.
In his message, Prime Minister Modi said the day "reminds us about the struggles and sacrifices of Christ".
Following Prime Minister Modi, several other politicians, including former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Odisha State Chief Naveen Patnaik, and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor posted Good Friday messages on their social media.
On the solemn occasion of #GoodFriday, let us remember Jesus Christ's message of compassion, forgiveness & service to humanity. His life teaches us the values of devotion & sacrifice for the good of humanity.
Commemorating the final hours of Jesus Christ's life before his crucifixion and death as described in the Bible, Good Friday is a gazetted holiday in India. Schools, colleges, and several businesses take the day off. The Christian community visits its churches to pray and attend services.
This year due to the coronavirus, many churches in India are organising virtual gatherings to avoid the risk of spreading the virus.