President, vice president, PM greet nation on Parsi new year

President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday greeted the nation on the eve of Navroz, the Parsi New Year, which will be observed Sunday.

"Navroz symbolises new beginnings and is seen as a harbinger of peace and prosperity. The festival reminds us of the rich diversity and inclusiveness of our culture," Mukherjee said.

"May this festival bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all people and reinforce our commitment to synthesis, harmony and goodwill towards all," he added.

In his message, the vice president said that Navroz, which "is celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm in our country, is an important symbol of our rich heritage and a vibrant composite culture".

"May this joyous occasion bring peace, progress and happiness in our lives," said Ansari.

The prime minister said that Navroz is a celebration of nature and is dedicated to renewal, righteous living and harmony.

"It marks the unity in diversity of Indian culture with the focus on human values.May the occasion bring well-being and happiness to all Parsis and the entire nation," Singh added.