Monday, August 15 2005 19:41 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: President A P J Abdul Kalam today (Aug 15, 2005) hosted an "At Home" on the occasion of 59th Independence Day.

Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA (United Progressive Alliance) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chaterjee and a host of other dignitaries including diplomats from several countries attended the function at the sprawling lawns of Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Former Prime Ministers V P Singh, H D Deve Gowda and I K Gujral, Union Ministers Shivraj Patil, Meira Kumar, Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi, P M Sayeed, Raghuvansh Prasad Singh, Delhi Lt Governor B L Joshi and Chief Minister Sheela Dixit were among those who attended the reception.

Besides the three Services Chief, diplomats from several countries including Pakistan, Kuwait, Iraq, Iran and other neighbouring states were also present.