Diwali a harbinger of hope for a better tomorrow: President Mukherjee

President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday greeted the nation on the eve of Diwali, adding that the festival signifies the triumph of righteousness and victory of good over evil.

"Diwali is a harbinger of hope and aspirations for a better tomorrow. It signifies the triumph of righteousness and victory of good over evil. May the lighting of lamps this year dispel the darkness of ignorance and suffering and illumine our lives with hope and prosperity," the President said in his message, while asking the nation to celebrate a safe and pollution free Diwali.

Calling on the citizens to bring happiness in the lives of the less fortunate and needy by lighting the lamp of love, care and sharing, the President hoped that may the festival of lights radiate happiness, peace and prosperity in every home across the country.

Vice President Hamid Ansari also greeted the country and said that the festival of Diwali signifies the victory of good over evil and reaffirms faith in the noble and virtuous life of Lord Rama.