President, VP, PM greet people on Onam

President Pratibha Patil, Vice-President M Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today greeted Malayalis everywhere on the occasion of Onam, which will be celebrated tomorrow.

"On the joyous occasion of Onam, I offer my heartiest greetings to all my fellow citizens and especially to the people of Kerala and wish them all prosperity and happiness. May this festival bring to all of them, the blessings of peace and harmony," Ms Patil said in her message.

Mr Ansari said the festival of Onam celebrated the onset of the harvest season and the mood of rejoicing was vividly captured in the colourful festivities transcending all barriers.

"May the festival usher in peace, prosperity and happiness in the society and contribute towards the nation’s progress," she said.

Dr Singh said Onam heralded the beginning of the harvest season and reaffirmed the secular traditions of the people.

"The festival is an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of unity and brotherhood and to renew the commitment to an egalitarian society. May the festival bring joy, peace and prosperity to all," he added.

NNN