President, VP, PM greet people on Christmas

New Delhi, Dec 24 (UNI) President Pratibha Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have greeted the nation on the joyous occasion of Christmas, saying the festival provides an opportunity to celebrate Jesus Christ's message of brotherhood, righteousness, forgiveness and compassion -- the ideals of universal and timeless relevance.

In her message, Mrs Patil said Jesus Christ's ideals of love, compassion and forgiveness are of universal and timeless relevance.

''On the occasion of Christmas, which is to be celebrated tomorrow, I extend my greetings to all my fellow citizens...I wish this Christmas fills our heart with joy, happiness and hope,'' she added.

Greeting the people, Mr Ansari said Jesus Christ showed to mankind the path of compassion, tolerance, love and righteousness.

''His teachings have the power to save mankind from ignorance, turmoil and moral decay. Together, they could help realise the vision of a peaceful, compassionate and harmonious world,'' the Vice-President said.

In his message, the Prime Minister said the festival provides an opportunity to celebrate Jesus's message of brotherhood and compassion.

''Christmas is an occasion to celebrate and imbibe Lord Christ's message of brotherhood, compassion and forgiveness,'' Dr Singh said.

''May the winter festival fill the hearts of people all over the world with warmth, love and goodwill towards fellow being,'' he added.

UNI