New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Vice President Hamid Ansari Thursday greeted the nation on the occasion of Onam - Kerala's harvest festival.

In her message, Patil said she wishes the people of Kerala and all Malayalees globally.

"On the auspicious occasion of Onam, I convey my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of Kerala and all Malayalees settled throughout the world," she said in a statement.

"May this harvest festival of colour and vivacity bring prosperity and all-round gaiety for the entire nation," she added.

The festival, which marks the homecoming of Kerala's mythological king Mahabali, will be celebrated Friday.

Greeting the nation, Manmohan Singh said: "The beauty of Onam lies in its secular traditions."

"People of all religions, castes and communities celebrate the festival with equal joy and verve. The rich cultural heritage of Kerala finds true expression during the ten day long festival".

"May the festival bring joy, peace and prosperity to all," he said.

Vice President Ansari said the "mood of rejoicing is vividly captured in the rituals and festivities associated with the festival, transcending all barriers and uniting us in a common brotherhood."

"May this festival foster unity, harmony and prosperity for all," he added.