President, PM greet nation on Janmashtami

New Delhi, Aug 9 (IANS) President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Vice President M. Hamid Ansari Thursday greeted the nation on the eve of Janmashtami festival.

In his message, President Mukherjee said: "On the occasion of Janmashtami, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens."

"Let us on this auspicious day dedicate ourselves to the service of the nation. Let us concentrate on performing our duties without thinking about the rewards. Good results will definitely follow right actions. Let us imbibe Lord Krishna's message of love and compassion, of oneness and pluralism and work together to take our great country forward," he added.

The prime minister said Janmashtami is a celebration of Lord Krishna's timeless message of renunciation of fruits of action. "May the festival inspire us towards a disciplined work-ethic, and imbibe us with the spirit of selfless service to the nation," he added.

Vice President Ansari also extended his greetings and good wishes to the citizens.

"I extend my heartiest greetings and good wishes to the citizens of our country on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami. Celebrated across the country with traditional fervour and enthusiasm, Janmashtami reminds us of the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. May this auspicious occasion bring amity, harmony, prosperity and happiness in our lives," he said.