Prez, VP, PM greet people on Holi, Milad-un-Nabi

New Delhi, Mar 20 (UNI) President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice-President M Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today greeted the people on the occasion of Holi and Milad-un-Nabi.

''On the joyous occasion of Holi, the festival of colours, I convey my greetings and good wishes to all my countrymen. The festival of Holi brings joy and happiness, which imbibes the spirit of friendship among people of all faiths. On this occasion, let us ensure that the less advantaged in society do not remain untouched by the spirit of celebrations,'' Ms Patil said in a message.

''As the festival of colours is marked by mingling of diverse colours, so let our various cultural diversities come together in celebration, instilling a sense of unity amongst us all,'' she said.

In another message, she said the message of the Prophet Mohammad had great relevance in today's world. ''May his teachings of universal love service to humanity and compassion inspire us all to lead righteous lives,'' the President said, greeting the pople on the occasion of Milad-un-Nabi.

Mr Ansari greeted the people on the joyous occasion of Holi, stating that the festival, which marked the advent of spring, was celebrated across the country with cheerfulness and zest.

''This festival portrays our great tradition of 'Unity in Diversity' by transcending all distinctions and bridges the social gap by uniting us all in a joyful celebration of sprinkling of colours. Let us celebrate this festival in its true spirit to strengthen the social fabric and promote national integration,'' the Vice-President said.

He also greeted the people on the sacred and auspicious occasion of Milad-Un-Nabi that marks the birth of the Prophet Mohammad.

In his message, the Vice-President said that the Prophet Mohammad showed us the glorious path of righteousness, compassion, brotherhood and tolerance. ''Milad-Un-Nabi is an occasion for remembering the life, teachings and example of the Prophet Mohammad. ''On this occasion, let us pray that God bestows his blessings on all of us for good health, progress and prosperity and inspire us to work for the welfare of the poor and the downtrodden,'' the Vice-President said.

In his Milad-un-Nabi greetings, Dr Singh said the teachings of the Prophet Mohammad inspire the humanity to lead a life of compassion, fellow feeling and selflessness.

''May the Prophet's message guide us all to live a righteous and productive life,'' the Prime Minister said.

UNI SN YA KN1506