New Delhi : The Prime Minister, President and Vice President today greeted the nation on the occasion of Christmas.

In his message, the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh construed Christmas as a "celebration of peace, love and hope and a time to rejoice in the company of family and friends.”

"The spirit of Christmas strengthens the values of brotherhood, tolerance and caring. May the spirit of Christmas be with all our countrymen throughout the New Year," he added.

Similarly, greeting the nation, President Pratibha Patil said the Yuletide celebration "reminds us of the profound message of Lord Jesus Christ to promote peace, unity and harmony in society and amongst one another.”

"May this year’s Christmas inspire us on the path of mutual understanding for the overall development of the nation.”

Christmas Day was marked across the country today with meditation and sermons on the meaning of Christ's birth. Churches and Christian institutions were seen illuminated and colourfully decorated for the festival.

Extending his greeting, the Vice President of India Hamid Ansari gave his "best wishes to the people on the joyous occasion of Christmas, which is celebrated with gaiety and fervour, to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.”

In his message he observed that Jesus Christ showed mankind the path of compassion, tolerance, love, brotherhood and sacrifice.

"His message has the power to lift the human race from ignorance, violence and moral decay to a life of peace, virtue and spiritual fulfillment," he declared.

"May Christmas fill our lives with peace, love and prosperity.”