President, PM greet people on Gudi Padava

New Delhi, Apr 6: President Pratibha Devisingh Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have greeted the people on the joyous occasion of Chaitra Sukladi, Gudi Padava, Ugadi and Cheti Chand which herald the Indian New Year.

In her message, the President said, "on this auspicious occasion I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens. May these festivals bring happiness, prosperity and well-being to you all." Noting that the festivals are celebrated as the New Year in many parts of the country, she said, "May the celebrations of these joyous festivals promote the values of tolerance and acceptance and strengthen traditional bonds of amity, understanding and harmony."

The Prime Minister said in his message that the festivals "bring forth the cultural diversity of our vast country. These traditional New Years mark a new beginning and provide an occasion for prayers and good tidings for the year ahead." He hoped that the festivals would inspire one and all to strive for the best.

UNI