New Delhi, Oct 16 : President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh greeted the nation on the joyous occasion of Diwali.

In her message, President Patil said, "On the joyous occasion of Diwali, I convey my warm greetings and good wishes to everyone in India and abroad."

"Diwali, the festival of lights is the celebration of the victory of good over evil. Let this year''s festival bring peace, prosperity and communal harmony amongst the people and illumine the lives of those who are in need of help," the President added.

In his message, Hamid Ansari said that celebrated throughout the country in a mood of festivity and gaiety, Diwali symbolises the triumph of good over evil, of light over darkness, of truth over untruth.

"In celebrating this effervescent festival, we emphasise the importance of these timeless values in our lives," he said.

"May the noble ideals of the festival prevail and usher in peace, prosperity and happiness in our lives," the Vice President added.

In his separate message, Dr. Manmohan Singh said that Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and brings joy and hope to people all over the country.

"It is an occasion for strengthening the bonds of friendship and goodwill between us. The festival of lights inspires us to fight darkness in all spheres of life," he said.

"May Diwali bring increased happiness, peace and prosperity to our people," the Prime Minister added. (ANI)