Prez, PM greet people on Mahavir Jayanti

New Delhi, Apr 17 (UNI) President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.

In her message, President Patil said," On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my countrymen. Bhagwan Mahavir 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 the society ".

Vice-President Hamid Ansari in his message said, "Bhagwan Mahavir's life and teachings are beacon of light to guide the mankind on the path of humanism, non-violence, universal love.

His teachings have the power to transform the society from the shackles of ignorance, violence and moral decay ".

" The ideals of Lord Mahavir 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,'' said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

In her message Congress President Sonia Gandhi said, " Today , in a world filled with violence and materialism , Lord Mahavir's nobel teachings assume even greater relevance. His teachings of non-violence towards all beings can also tell us how to preserve our environment and restore ecological balance on our planet ".

UNI SSS KK HT1807