President, PM greet nation on Onam

The President hopes the festival will bring prosperity and unity among the different religious communities in the new year.

President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday greeted the nation on the occasion of Onam and hoped the festival would herald happiness and prosperity for the people.

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"On the auspicious occasion of Onam, I greet all my people in India and abroad. The festival is a symbol of unity and oneness of people belonging to various religions," she said in a message.

"May this harvest festival herald a new year of happiness and prosperity for the people and promote harmony and brotherhood in the country," Patil said.

Singh said "Onam, which heralds the beginning of the harvest season, gives us an opportunity to salute our farmers for their contribution to our economy."

He wished the festival "brings peace, prosperity and happiness to all".