Agra: It was an anti-climax of sorts as French President Nicolas Sarkozy today visited Taj Mahal without his girlfriend Carla Bruni, contrary to intense speculation that the former supermodel would keep her date with the 17th century monument of love.

But Sarkozy kept the hopes alive of his returning with Bruni as he said in his farewell message at the architectural marvel - "See you soon again". The French leader, who came to India yesterday on a two-day visit, took time off his tightly-packed schedule to visit the Taj amid heightened media interest, particularly in view of the guessing game over whether Bruni would accompany him.

"Unforgettable," wrote the 52-year-old in the visitor s book in French about the Mughal monument built by Shahjahan for his beloved wife Noor Jahan. Sarkozy, the Chief Guest at this year s Republic Day celebrations, came here soon after witnessing the parade in Delhi.

Though most of the world leaders visiting India make it a point to travel to Taj Mahal, the media interest was more in the case of Sarkozy's tour because of expectation that he would be accompanied by his 40-year-old lady love.

Source : PTI