Lucknow, Dec. 25 -- Despite its name, Boxing Day has nothing to do with punches or prizefights. In Lucknow, or anywhere in the world, December 26 is marked by open boxes, open hearts, and a long tradition of sharing with the underprivileged. Observed a day after Christmas, Boxing Day traces its roots to the age-old custom of placing donations in church boxes for the poor or gifting househelps. In the city's historic churches and neighbourhoods, that legacy continues. "On Christmas, we receive many gifts packed in boxes. On Boxing Day, these boxes are opened and the contents are distributed among the poor and underprivileged," said Father Donald D Souza Chancellor and spokesperson of the Catholic Diocese of Lucknow,. "It is a reminder that celebration is incomplete unless it includes those in need." The tradition emerged because househelps were expected to work on Christmas Day and were given December 26 off to visit their families. Others link the name to church donation boxes that were opened on this day and shared with the poor. In Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Boxing Day was traditionally a time when employers gave bonuses, food or clothing to their workers packed in boxes. Lucknow's Christian community has preserved this charitable essence, adapting it to local realities. As families share leftover Christmas meals and greetings, many residents step out to serve people living on the margins. Social worker Sanjay Lazarus of Mawaiyya Church has been doing this for years. "We go to slums and orphanages to distribute the gift boxes we receive on Christmas from friends and relatives," Lazarus said. "This year too, we will be visiting slum areas in Mawaiyya and Alambagh, as well as an orphanage, to share gifts on Boxing Day." Lazarus explains that historically, gift exchanges among people of similar social status happened on Christmas Day, while gifts for the poor were reserved for December 26. "Boxing Day was the day when the rich gave to the poor," he said. "It carried a strong social message." Adding to the day's religious significance is the Feast of St. Stephen, also observed on December 26. St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was among the original deacons appointed to care for widows and the poor. His death for his faith has made the day especially meaningful for acts of charity....