President greets people on Buddha Purnima

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) President Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday greeted the nation on the eve of Buddha Purnima and said that Lord Buddha's life and teachings have "universal significance".

"The life and teachings of Lord Buddha have universal significance. The ideals of non-violence, peace, compassion and service to humanity embodied in his teachings have profoundly impacted human history and the course of civilisation," Mukherjee said.

The president added that a large number of people all over the world follow Buddhism due to its universal appeal.

"May Lord Buddha's message infuse our thoughts, words and deeds and serve as a beacon guiding us on the path of universal brotherhood," he said.