Santa Claus is the most popular and beloved icon of the Christian world.
He dominates the Christmas celebration. In the name of Santa, business houses carry out a roaring business, which runs into billions of dollars.
However, the question remains: “Is Santa Claus real or a fiction”?
History tells us that the modern-day Santa Claus is markedly different from the original Sinter Klaas: nickname for Saint Nicholas who was born in Turkey.
He was known for his philanthropic work in saving children living in poverty and sailors.
His popularity spread far and wide, and his values were admired by many.
The concept of giving gifts to children and friends was inspired by St. Nicholas through his work.
However, as the Dutch settlers settled in North America the modern-day Santa Claus or Father Christmas evolved.
He is seen as a fat guy wearing a long white beard, wearing a funny hat with a broad belt and riding a sledge on snow pulled by reindeers.
His main purpose once a year was to give gifts and spread happiness: his big broad smile tells it all!
Business houses realised the selling power of Santa Claus. Thus emerged a variety of figurines regarding Santa.
Children are told that Santa will bring sweets in socks and other gifts for them.
They wait with expectation and excitement.
And upon receiving the gifts there is profu-sion of joy all around.
Human ingenuity is operating at full speed. We have seen Santa swimming amongst fish in an aquarium where children frantically wave at him. What an imagination.
We also see cartoon Santas dancing and enjoying himself. Even animal cartoons open gifts and get thrilled by it.
It is for you to decide if the world’s greatest icon is a fact or a fiction?
Smile and be happy: enjoy the rest of the festive season.
