New Delhi, Dec 24: President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today extended their greetings to fellow citizens on Christmas eve.

In her message, Patil said, "Christ's message of love, compassion and forgiveness is a message of universal and timeless relevance. I wish this Christmas fills our heart with joy, happiness and hope."

Mohammad Ansari said that Jesus Christ showed to mankind the path of compassion, tolerance, love and righteousness.

“His teachings have the power to save mankind from ignorance, turmoil and moral decay. Together, they could help realize the vision of a peaceful, compassionate and harmonious world,” Ansari said.

The Vice President added that this festival may bring peace, prosperity, and happiness in our lives.

On the joyous occasion, Dr. Singh said that Christmas is an occasion to celebrate and imbibe Lord Christ’s message of brotherhood, compassion and forgiveness.

“May the winter festival fill the hearts of people all over the world with warmth, love and goodwill towards fellow beings,” the Prime Minister added. (ANI)