KATHMANDU: President Bidya Devi Bhandari extended her best wishes to all the Nepalis, both in and outside the country, on the occasion of the Phagu Poornima.

In a press statement released by the Office of the President, President Bhandari wished for the happiness, peace, health and happiness to all the Nepalis. Stating that such festivals help forge national unity, foster fraternity, mutual harmony and communal amity, the head of the State suggested it was the need of the hour to conserve such traditions and cultural festivity.

The message notes, "May Phagu Poornima spread happiness among the Nepalis and help disseminate the message of peace."

Similarly, Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun, in his message on the same occasion, also extended his best wishes to all the Nepalis at home and abroad.

"May the Festival inspire all Nepalis to move ahead on the path of mutual consensus, cooperation and collaboration and promote mutual goodwill, tolerance and fraternity." the message read.

Also Prime KP Sharma Oli, who is currently in China, also extended his greetings to the Nepali people on the occasion.

PM Oli wished for prosperity, communal harmony and cooperation among the citizens along with the different colours used to celebrate the festival.

Phagu Poornima or the festival of colours is being celebrated with much fanfare in hilly areas, including the capital city, today, while tomorrow in Terai region.