President greets nation on Mahavir Jayanti

New Delhi, Apr 6 (ANI): President Pratibha Patil has greeted her countrymen on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, which will be celebrated tomorrow.

In her message, President Patil said: "On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens."

"May the message of Lord Mahavir, of love, compassion and peace, guide our conduct and inspire us to follow the path of Ahimsa for good of all humanity,' the President 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)