President Mukherjee greets nation on Durga Puja

President Pranab Mukherjee has greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja.

"On the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, I extend warm greetings to all my countrymen," he said.

In his message he said that Durga Puja, also known as Sharadutsav, symbolizes the victory of virtue over evil.

"Let us, on this day, rise above the evils of sectarianism, intolerance and man-made divides. Let us dedicate ourselves to the practice and promotion of mutual understanding, peace and non-violence," he said.

"Re-affirmation of faith in the unity of all religions and commitment to secularism and communal harmony would be the best tribute to Goddess Durga," he added.

He further said that Goddess Durga signifies Shakti - the infinite power of the Universe and is a symbol of female dynamism.

"May this Durga Puja strengthen the moral fibre of our society and inspire us to build a society in which women are respected and empowered to become equal partners in building of the nation. May Goddess Durga always guide us on the path of right conduct and service to our brethren," he added.