President Pranab Mukherjee greets countrymen on eve of Diwali

President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday greeted countrymen on the eve of Diwali and hoped that the festival of light "dispel the darkness of ignorance and illumine people's lives with hope and prosperity".

"Diwali is a harbinger of hope and aspirations for a better tomorrow. It signifies the triumph of righteousness and victory of good over evil. May the lighting of lamps this year dispel the darkness of ignorance and suffering and illumine our lives with hope and prosperity,” said President.

"Let us on this day try to bring happiness in the lives of the less fortunate and needy by lighting the lamp of love, care and sharing. May this festival of lights radiate happiness, peace and prosperity in every home across the country. Let us all celebrate a safe and pollution free Diwali," the President has said in his message.