Leaders greet people of the country on the occasion of Christmas.
President Pratibha Patil, vice president Hamid Ansari, prime minister Manmohan Singh, governor E S L Narasimhan and other leaders on Friday greeted people to mark Christmas, which is being celebrated on Saturday.
In a message, the President said, "On the joyous occasion of Christmas, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all citizens. The day symbolizes a yearning of humanity for lasting peace and joy in our hearts. Let us follow the teachings of Lord Jesus Christ in our daily lives and work for harmony and unity in society and the progress of our country."
Vice president M Hamid Ansari, too, extended his greetings and best wishes to the people of the country on the occasion of Christmas.
In his message, Ansari said, "Christmas is celebrated as the day of the birth of Jesus Christ into this world, yet it also symbolises a very significant truth of life. Jesus assured man that he can reach God through peace, love, compassion and tolerance. These values have the power to transform our lives and bring hope in troubled times. May Christmas fill our lives with peace, love and prosperity."
Prime minister Manmohan Singh, in his message, said that Christmas is a celebration of the spirit of brotherhood and an opportunity to spread joy and share happiness.
"The festival, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, underlines the need to follow the ideals of sacrifice, service, redemption and love and compassion. May the festival usher in peace, prosperity and happiness to all," the PM added.
Governor E S L Narasimhan, in a message on the eve of Christmas, said "I extend my heartiest greetings to all the members of the Christian community and the people of the state. Christmas is a time of joyous remembrance of Jesus Christ. It is also an occasion to renew the bonds of amity and universal brotherhood which Jesus had taught the world. The life of Jesus is a source of inspiration to us to live our lives with love, compassion and virtue, laced with faith. On the occasion of Christmas, I join with Christian brothers and sisters to ask for abiding grace to ever shine on mankind. Let the spirit of Christmas foster and strengthen the bonds of love, tolerance and compassion among all communities."
Courtesy: INN