New Delhi: Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat on October 24 greeted the people on the occasion of Deepawali, the festival of lights, and wished the festival usher in peace and prosperity across the country.

"I greet the people of India on the auspicious and joyous occasion of Deepawali, the festival of lights... May this festival bring peace, prosperity and happiness in the lives of all," he said in his message.

Pointing out that Diwali symbolises victory of "good over evil, light over darkness and truth over untruth", he said in celebrating it "we reiterate our commitment to these universal values in our lives. Let us celebrate the festival with care and concern."

Meanwhile, Congress president Sonia Gandhi in her message said, "I send my warm greetings and good wishes to all my fellow Indians for a happy and festive Deepawali. May this auspicious festival usher in peace and prosperity throughout the nation..."

She said, "May each 'diya' we light be a flame that burns bright in homage to those who have sacrificed their lives for the country, a flame of compassion for all those who are suffering, and a flame of solidarity with victims of injustice and oppression all over the world."

PTI