President, VP, PM greet nation on Raksha Bandhan

President Pranab Mukherjee in his message said, "On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I extend my greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens in India and abroad."

He said Raksha Bandhan is the celebration of the unique relationship that exists between brothers and sisters and the tying of a Rakhi symbolises love, affection and mutual trust between sisters and brothers.

"May the spirit of this festival strengthen fraternal feelings in our society, and remind us of the importance of unity and harmony, as we strive collectively for the well- being of our people," he said.

Vice President Hamid Ansari in his message said, "Rakshabandhan signifies the protective bond between brothers and sisters and the celebration of this festival plays an important role in spreading the message of unity and harmony in our society."

He called upon people to follow the ideals associated with the festival to promote the spirit of amity, harmony and goodwill.

In his greetings to the people of the nation, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called for celebrating the joyous occasion to strengthen the bonds of love and affection in family and society.

"We should use this occasion to promote peace, harmony and brotherhood in our country," he said.