Date:23/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/23/stories/2008032354690800.htm

National

Special day for Vajpayee

New Delhi: The former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, on Saturday made his first public appearance in recent months on the occasion of Holi, but chose not to make any comments before the media.

The 83-year-old leader, looking hale and cheerful, accepted greetings and was also seen making brief responses to the guests during his hour-long appearance at his residence.

Mr. Advani, the party’s prime ministerial face, and party chief Rajnath Singh were among the first to greet Mr. Vajpayee.

Mr. Advani, after arriving, sought Mr. Vajpayee’s blessings and applied colour on him.

Mr. Singh, who was standing nearby, then sought Mr. Advani’s blessings, which prompted some guests to term it as a “succession saga.” “He [Vajpayee] is recognising everyone and also enquiring about each one as he accepted wishes,” a family member said.

The festivities at Mr. Advani’s residence were at a high with top Central and State leaders gathering to extend their wishes to him. Mr. Singh had hosted a cultural programme of Bhojpuri dance and songs at his official residence. — PTI