Chennai, Sep 24 (IANS): Former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on Tuesday expressed surprise and happiness on receiving birthday greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a tweet posted on his Twitter handle, Chidambaram said he was surprised and happy to receive birthday greetings from Modi in Tamil.

In a letter addressed to Chidambaram's address in Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu, Modi said in Tamil: "I am happy to extend my heartfelt greetings on your birthday."

"May the Almighty give you good health and happiness and also bless you so that you can continue to serve the people," Modi said.

Chidambaram's birthday was on September 16.

In his tweet, Chidambaram said that as per Modi's wish, he would like to continue to serve the people. But unfortunately, it is the Modi government's probe agencies that are hindering him.

"After the current torture comes to an end, I am eager to serve the people as per Modi's wish," Chidambaram added.

Chidambaram is presently lodged in Tihar Jail in the national capital for his alleged involvement in the INX Media corruption case.