Pranab Mukherjee greets people on Onam as families gear up to celebrate the festival

President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday greeted people on the eve of the start of Onam festivities, and said the occasion, the harvest festival of Kerala, marks the joyous completion of human efforts.

"On the festive occasion of Onam, I convey my heartiest greetings and best wishes to fellow countrymen, especially to my brothers and sisters from Kerala," the President said in a message.

Mukherjee said that coinciding with the harvest season, Onam marks a joyful completion of human efforts, with prayerful optimism for the future.

"People of all religions, castes and communities celebrate the festival with equal joy, underlining the secular fabric of our society."

"This unique festival brings out the rich cultural heritage of Kerala in its best form and spirit. On this day, may the joy of Kerala extend to the whole of India, bringing peace and harmony to all," the President said.

Onam is celebrated over a period of 10 days.