New Delhi, Oct (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday wished the nation on the eve of the 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and urged people to imbibe wisdom from his teachings.

"It is an occasion for us to reflect on the life and contribution of the Father of our Nation. I urge all citizens to imbibe wisdom from the valued teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and ensure that Bapu remains alive in our hearts and minds forever," Mukherjee said in his message on the occasion.

"This is a day to re-dedicate ourselves to ideals of the Mahatma who forged the instrument of Satyagraha based on truth, non-violence and power of self-suffering and helped India shed the yoke of colonialism," he said.

The president said Mahatma Gandhi had an exemplary passion for justice and an indefatigable spirit of service to mankind.

"The Mahatma's ideas and way of life permeated the collective conscience of India and found expression in all the democratic institutions that we have built up over the years," he said.

"When we drew up our Constitution, concepts such as fundamental rights, directive principles, abolition of untouchability, rights for underprivileged and marginalized were all inspired by Gandhian thoughts and values," he said.