New Delhi, April 14 President Pratibha Patil on Tuesday greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, Vishu and Bihu — festivals that are celebrated in different parts of the country to mark the advent of the new year.

In her message, she said: "May these joyous festivals celebrated in different parts of the country marking the advent of the new year, inspire us to strive for peace, harmony and amity and work for the unity and progress of our country."

She also wished people on the harvest festival of Baisakhi, which is being celebrated in northern India, especially Punjab, on Tuesday.

"On the joyous occasion of Baisakhi, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my people, particularly to all those engaged in cultivation. May this harvest festival be a celebration of the diligence of our farming community," she added.

While Baisakhi is celebrated in northern India, Vishu is celebrated in Kerala, Bihu in Assam and Mesadi and Puthandu in Tamil Nadu. All these festivals will be celebrated on Wednesday.

Vice-President Hamid Ansari also greeted the people. In his message, the Vice-President said that the rituals and the colourful festivities of these festivals inspire us to transcend all barriers and unite us in common brotherhood.

"I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the joyous and auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, Mesadi, Bihu and Vishu," he added.

"Celebrated with a mood to rejoice and gaiety in various parts of the country, these festivals mark the beginning of the new year. May these festivals promote the spirit of amity among us all," he said.