New Delhi: Departing from tradition, Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat today (Aug 21, 2004) came to the front portico of his residence to receive Major Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, the first Indian to win a silver medal in the Olympics.

Rathore, who reached the capital this morning, was given a warm hug by the Vice President who then tied the traditional colourful Rajasthani turban on Rathore and his father Col (Retd) Lachman Singh.

"The entire nation is proud of you and we take pride in your achievement. I am sure your performance would inspire our sportspersons to strive for greater heights in their respective events. All sportspersons will work in the same way that you have done to achieve this," Shekhawat said as he posed for a battery of photographers along with family members of the shooter.

As soon as Rathore came up the steps, Shekhawat's daughter Rattan Kanwar applied the traditional Rajasthani tilak on forehead and was garlanded by Shekhawat.

"I have got a lot of respect for you and your life is a source of inspiration for the youth of the country," said Rathore touched by the warm reception accorded to him by Shekhawat.

Later, Rathore and his family members joined Shekhawat for tea away from the media glare.