New Delhi, Apr 6: President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday greeted the people of the country on the occasion of traditional New Year celebrations in various parts of the country. In her message President Pratibha Patil said these festivals -- Vikram Samvatsar, Chaitra Sukladi, Gudi Padava, Ugadi, Cheti Chand, Navreh and Sujibu Cheiraoba -- promote the values of tolerance and acceptance and strengthen traditional bonds of amity, understanding and harmony.

On these auspicious occasions, she said, "I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens. May these festivals bring happiness, prosperity and well being to all." In his message, Dr Singh said these festivals bring forth the cultural diversity of our vast country. "These traditional New Years mark a new beginning and provide an occasion for prayers and good tidings for the year ahead. May these festivals inspire one and all to strive for the best," he said.