President, VP, PM greet people on Mahavir Jayanti

New Delhi, Mar 30 (UNI) President A P J Abdul Kalam today led the nation in greeting the people on the occasion on Mahavir Jayanti tomorrow.

In his message the President said Lord Mahavir renounced the world for the cause of humanity and preached ahimsa, truth and compassion.

''May his noble teachings continue to inspire us to strive for love, peace, harmony and amity and work for the unity and progress of our motherland,'' he added.

Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat said Bhagwan Mahavir, through his enlightened teachings, showed the glorious path of non-violence, truth and taking care of the needy to usher in universal love and social harmony in the world.

''His teachings have the power to transform our lives by freeing mankind from ignorance, turmoil amd moral decay,'' he said in the message.

The Vice President also called upon the people to strive to realise a peaceful and humane society in which the poor and downtrodden have a dignified place.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Lord Mahavir's life and teachings were constant reminders of the extra-ordinary power of non-violence, truth and peace.

''Lord Mahavir showed us the path to enlightenment in a manner which does not cause hurt to living beings. His profound message is a beacon of hope and salvation for the entire humanity,'' Dr Singh added.

UNI