Ahern leads trade mission to India

ANORAKMAN had to evolve with his political career.

So when Bertie moved into the Cabinet, out went the Lord Anthony coats and in came Louis Copeland. Yesterday, the quintessential Bass-drinking Dub went east for inspiration.

Previous embarrassments have included a canary yellow suit at an EU summit. Back then Bertie didn't blush. Yesterday, he looked embarrassed wearing a red tika on his forehead and a garland of sandalwood and traditional flowers.

He was given the Aarti the traditional Indian welcoming act of veneration and love reserved as a mark of worship for the gods or important guests.

In addition to the garlands, generally offered as a mark of respect in honour of the gods and goddesses, Mr Ahern was also presented with five small lamps called niranjanas filled with oil and arranged in a small tray.

The female version of the red dot known as a bindi represents the third eye, the eye of wisdom. The sages opine that human beings will regain their third eye when they are able to conquer their desires.

A massive security operation was in place for the Taoiseach's first official visit to India, where he is leading the largest-ever trade mission from Ireland to a foreign country. Close to 100 companies from north and south are taking part.

Mr Ahern is accompanied by Enterprise Minister Micheál Martin, Education Minister Mary Hanafin and Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister John O'Donoghue.

Close to 300 meetings have been organised in Bangalore, New Delhi and Mumbai. It is expected the Taoiseach will announce the opening of the first Enterprise Ireland office during his week-long visit.

He will have meetings with India's leaders and lay a wreath at the Gandhi memorial. He will also attend the unveiling of a new road to be called after Eamon de Valera.