Former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat got somewhat philosophical as he celebrated his 68th birthday today, saying life has been a mix of jolts and caresses for him and he will perhapsgo a little way longer before taking stock of things.
Pressed by reporters to comment on his journey so far, he said, "It has been a mix of jolts and caresses as it is in most cases. But it should be precisely that way because that is what makes it interesting."
Asked about his achievements, Rawat, who lost his office recently after a two-year tenure following a political crisis in the state, said "The journey is still on and perhaps I shall go a little way longer before I finally take stock of things."
A large number of supporters and well wishers greeted him.
Rawat began the day by paying obeisance at the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Mandir where he prayed for the state's welfare and its safety during monsoon when the annual chardham yatra will be underway.
Though Rawat had announced that he does not celebrate his birthday ceremoniously, a host of party leaders including PCC president Kishore Upadhyay, Mahanagar Congress president Prithiviraj Singh Chauhan andPCC spokesman Mathuradutt Joshi arrived at his residence at 10.30 AM to greet him on the occasion with bouquets.
On their request he also cut two large cakes.
Replying to questions from reporters, he said it was for the first time he had ceremoniously celebrated his birthday on the request of his friends and well-wishers.
