New Delhi, September 01: President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday greeted the nation on Kerala’s harvest festival of Onam, saying it inspires the country to promote harmony and brotherhood.
“On the joyous occasion of Onam, I extend my warmest greetings to everyone, especially to all my brothers and sisters in Kerala,” the president said in a communique from the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Onam will be celebrated Wednesday.
“May the auspicious harvest festival, which underlines the importance of agriculture in our country, inspire us to work for the progress and prosperity of our nation and to promote harmony and compassion in our country,” the communique said.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, greeting the people, said: “Onam is an occasion to celebrate the secular traditions and rich heritage of our country. The harvest festival is also a joyous tribute to the farmer.”
The festival inspired the people to cherish the environment and spread the message of brotherhood, the prime minister’s message said.
“May the festival bring prosperity and happiness to all,” Manmohan Singh added in his message.
–Agencies