The new President, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, does not want to take a lot of things to the Rashtrapati Bhawan from 13, Talkatora Road where he stays now.

Other than a few books he reads now, he will take the idols of his favourite gods and goddesses to the official residence of the President. His collection of books and other personal materials will be shifted to his residence in Greater Kailash here.

His advisor for years, Ms Omita Paul, is likely to get an important place in the office of the new President.

Dada, as he is fondly called by friends and foes, was in a jovial mood the whole day. The result was expected, so, no one at his home was tense.

His well-wishers, relatives and Congress supporters had started gathering near his house since morning.

They danced, played music, burst crackers and shouted slogans congratulating the new President. The moment the result was announced, VIP guests started coming to his house. The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, and the UPA chairperson, Ms Sonia Gandhi, visited his residence and congratulated him.

The Vice-President, Mr Hamid Ansari, also called Mr Mukherjee to congratulate him.

The Lok Sabha Speaker, Ms Meira Kumar, senior ministers and UPA leaders also reached Mr Mukherjee’s house, who were received warmly by the newly-elected President.

> jigeesh.am@thehindu.co.in