President, VP, PM greet people on Janmashtami

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

"On the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, I extend my greetings and best wishes to all my fellow citizens. May this festival inspire all of us to lead lives in which we ceaselessly strive for amity and unity with all our compatriots," Ms Patil said in her message.

Mr Ansari said the festival, which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, reminded people of his life and teachings.

"On this occasion, let us rededicate ourselves to the teachings of Lord Krishna and work for the creation of a peaceful, harmonious and enlightened society," he said.

Dr Singh said the festival celebrated the life and eternal teachings of Lord Krishna – discipline, knowledge, and selfless action.

"May the festival inspire us towards the goal of banishing ignorance and poverty through education and herald peace and prosperity for all," he added.

NNN