By IANS,
New Delhi : President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday greeted the nation on the eve of the Onam harvest festival, wishing the people peace, prosperity and harmony.
In her message Patil said: “On the auspicious occasion of Onam, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens. May this unique festival, coinciding with the harvest season, bring happiness and prosperity to their lives and reaffirm our pride in the composite culture of India.”
Ansari said: “Onam is a harvest festival celebrated with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm to mark the visit of King Mahabali. The mood of rejoicing is vividly captured in the display of rich cultural heritage, elaborate rituals, festivities and other games associated with the festival, transcending all barriers and uniting us in a bond of common brotherhood.
“Let us celebrate this festival in its true spirit to usher in peace, prosperity and happiness in the lives of all,” Ansari added.
Manmohan Singh greeted “the people of Kerala and the entire nation”, saying Onam signifies the importance of love, unity and brotherhood.
“May this festival usher in all round prosperity, peace and harmony,” the prime minister added.