New Delhi, Dec 24 : President Pratibha Patil and Vice President Hamid Ansari today greeted the people on the joyous occasion of ''Christmas''.

In her message, the President said, "On the joyous occasion of Christmas, let us recall the teachings of Jesus Christ and pledge to dedicate ourselves to spread his universal message of love and compassion. Let us also ensure that people from the disadvantaged sections of the society are also able to participate in this celebration, which is indeed the spirit of Christmas."

In his message, the Vice President said, "Christmas celebrates the birth of Lord Jesus Christ whose teachings have the potential to imbibe the divine element in our lives. The festival reminds us of spiritual effulgence of Jesus Christ''s teachings that could help realise the vision of a peaceful and harmonious world."

"May the holy festival of Christmas bless us all with peace, prosperity and happiness," the Vice President added. (ANI)