Clinton takes away fond memories -- and frogs -- from Rajasthan

Clinton takes away fond memories -- and frogs -- from Rajasthan
RAJESH SINHA

JAIPUR, MARCH 24: United States President Bill Clinton left for Hyderabad with his entourage this morning, carrying with him a whole lot of goodwill, memories of a pleasant holiday and, among other things, 11 frogs, presented to him by the Rajasthan Government.

An encounter with animals was one of the highlights of his holiday here. He was greeted by langurs, welcomed by elephants and obligingly presented a close view by the tigers of Ranthambore, but it was the gift of frogs that reportedly satisfied him.

The frogs, fashioned out of semi-precious stones, were specially made for Clinton, who is supposed to have collected a good number of different kinds of the amphibian. The memento from the state government should now easily be among his favourites.

The state government had been in a fix for a while, discussing and rejecting ideas regarding a suitable memento for Clinton. They dug up his life history, finding out his likes and dislikes and culling information on his hobbies.

Collecting frogs was one hobby that clicked with the authorities here. A close associate of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Rajiv Arora, who also manufacturs such items, has a penchant for turtles.

Arora was honoured to gift the 11 frogs, which are made of stones like jade, tiger's eye, crystal quartz, amethyst, agate and silver. A fan woven out of strips of silver and a cosmetic box were also presented to Clinton.

An invitation to visit again was extended to Clinton. The Governor, the Chief Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and the entire Cabinet, along with Union Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Vasundhara Raje Scindia, had gathered at the airport to give a warm sendoff to Clinton. The President shook hands with all of them, who were lined along the red carpet leading to his aircraft.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Clinton had enjoyed himself. The visit was a success for the state government, which is likely to publicise Rajasthan as a tourist destination, particularly in America.