New Delhi, Nov 13 (IANS): Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Friday greeted the nation on the eve of Deepawali, which signifies the victory of good over evil, and urged people to celebrate the festival of lights adhering to the health and hygeine protocols in view of Covid-19 pandemic.

In his greetings to nation, Naidu said, "I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens in India and abroad on the auspicious occasion of Deepawali/Diwali - the festival of lights."

The Vice President said that Deepawali that is celebrated with traditional fervour and zeal, it signifies the victory of good over evil and reaffirms our belief in the noble ideals and morals of Lord Rama's life.

He said, it is the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Laxmana from exile of 14 years after defeating the demon king Ravana.

"It is also a celebration of the pious and principled path exemplified in the life and deeds of Lord Rama. The festival reminds us that we need to constantly quell the demonic forces and foster goodness and harmony in our society," Naidu said.

He also pointed out that Deepawali's celebrations transcend the boundaries of India.

"One can say it is one of the biggest celebrated festivals of the world. Indians living abroad celebrate Deepawali with much fanfare and love. Worshiping of Lakshmi Devi, the Goddess of prosperity in the night of Deepawali is also one of the main rituals of this festival," he said.

Highlighting the Covid-19 pandemic situation across the country, Naidu said, Deepawali is always an occasion for family and friends to come together and celebrate.

"But this year, given the unprecedented health emergency due to Covid-19, I urge my fellow citizens to celebrate Deepawali by adhering to health and hygiene protocols," he said.

"May this festival dispel the darkness of ignorance and kindle the light of knowledge and enlightenment. May it bring peace, harmony, prosperity and happiness in our lives," he added.