Saturday, March 26 2005 16:58 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: It was a special Holi for more than 100 children when they got to celebrate the festival of colours with President A P J Abdul Kalam at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"Around 100 children from seven schools in Delhi and Haryana today (March 26, 2005) greeted Kalam with songs and poetry," Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesperson S M Khan told sources in New Delhi.

The group included 15 children suffering from Thalassemia and around 10-12 mentally challenged kids.

Although Kalam, who is equally reputed for his love for children and poetry, did not recite anything, he met the group warmly and stamped his personal touch on the occasion by gifting them a picture each of the famous Mughal Gardens with a self-written caption, Khan said.

'Taller we grow, we radiate more happiness', the caption read and the President said he was happy to be with them.

"The day of Holi is a happy day and children with their smiles spread happiness. The happiness should especially be shared with those in need of it," Khan quoted Kalam as saying.

"Although there was no dabbing of colours, the President did accompany the children around the Mughal Gardens and they were absolutely delighted," Khan said.