Prez, PM greet nation on eve of Mahavir Jayanti

{image-Pratibha+Patil1_17042008.jpg news.oneindia.in}New Delhi, Apr 17: President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today greeted people on the eve of Mahavir Jayanti, which will be celebrated on Friday.

President Patil has sent her greetings from Mexico City, where she is currently on a state visit. In her message, the President said, "On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my countrymen. Lord Mahavira preached ahimsa, truth and compassion, which is the need of the hour. Let us on this day resolve to foster the values of ahimsa in society".

In his separate message, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the ideals of Lord Mahavira inspire all to lead a life of compassion and sacrifice.

"May this festival strengthen in one and all the commitment to non violence, truth and harmony", the Prime Minister added.

The day celebrates the birth of Mahavira, the last of the 24 Tirthankaras of the Jain community. He was born on the 13th day of the rising moon of Chaitra.

On this day, Jain temples are decorated with flags. In the morning, the idol of Mahavira is given a ceremonial bath called the 'abhishek'. It is then placed in a cradle and carried in a procession. The devotees will make offerings of milk, rice, fruit, incense, lamps and water to the people in procession.

ANI