Governor, CM extend greetings on Christmas eve

Panaji, Dec 24 (UNI) Governor S C Jamir, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and opposition leader Manohar Parrikar today extended Christmas greetings on the eve of the festival celebrated with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm.

The festival has a special significance in Goa, where more than 45 per cent of the population are Catholic Christians. All the historic monuments including Churches, of this one time Portuguese colony, are beautifully illuminated on the festival eve.

Mr Jamir, in his message, asked people to carry the ''divine spirit of Christmas to promote peace and harmony, by obliterating narrow divisions of race, religion, caste, creed or community.'' ''Let us disseminate warm vibes of love, joy and peace and share our joy and gratitude with our fellow citizens,'' he said.

Kamat, in a separate message, said the festival spreads message of love, affection, unity and brotherhood. Christmas is also time for family reunions.

Christmas in Goa brings domestic and foreign tourists in large numbers to Goan beaches to watch the place at its cultural best, and enjoy the best of Goan music and dance during the festivities, he said.

Mr Parrikar, in his message, said that Christmas is celebrated universally because Jesus was the messiah of peace, love and joy.

May each and every Goan enjoy this peace, love and joy all through the year, he said.

UNI