Clad in white suit and sporting a rose in the pocket, Bhardwaj took salute and inspected the guard of honour by going round the grounds atop an open jeep amid cheers and applause by about 5,000 people gathered for the grand occasion.
Thousands of rose petals were dropped from a helicopter when the governor unfurled the flag on a bright sunny day and the national anthem was played. Contingents of army, navy and air force led the parade followed by the Karnataka State Reserve Police, National Cadet Corps and boys and girls from the Scouts and Guides.
Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, cabinet ministers and senior officials were present on the occasion.
Published 26 January 2011, 04:08 IST