President, prime minister greet nation on Mahavir Jayanti

President Pratibha Patil and prime minister Manmohan Singh today greeted the nation on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir.

"On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I convey my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all the people. May Lord Mahavir’s noble teachings inspire us to work for peace and harmony for the welfare of humanity," Patil said.

Singh said Lord Mahavir's life and teachings inspire people to be compassionate and simple and show the path to a life of happiness and contentment.

"Lord Mahavir's profound message remains a beacon of hope in today’s world," he said.