Holi Hai! President, PM, Sonia greet people on Holi

New Delhi, March 27: President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister

and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday greeted people on

and expressed hope that the festival of colours will strengthen faith in national values and promote oneness and harmony.

"On the joyous occasion of Holi, I convey my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow countrymen. This festival which marks the advent of spring, is a harbinger of joy, hope and fulfilment for all," the President said in his greetings.

"The myriad colours of Holi are a reflection of our diversity and multi-cultural heritage. May this festival of colours strengthen faith in our cherished national values and promote oneness, harmony and the good of all," he said in a Rashtrapati Bhawan statement.

The Prime Minister said the festival of colours is celebration of "life and goodness and gives opportunity to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood."

In his message, the Prime Minister said the festival also marks the advent of spring, ushering in new hope for a brighter future.

"May the festival bring in peace, happiness and prosperity to all," the Prime Minister said.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi, in her message said, Holi has a special significance in our centuries-old cultural heritage which promotes social harmony and brotherhood.

"I extend my heartiest good wishes to all our countrymen on the occasion of Holi," she said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar also greeted the people on the eve of Holi and urged them to resolve to eradicate inequality, intolerance and prejudices that tend to vitiate the society.

"Holi, the festival of colours, symbolises boundless joy and the vivid shades of our composite culture. In fact, what makes Holi special is its deep social and cultural message for us. It strengthens our commitment to the finer values of equity, inclusion and fair play," she said.

PTI