Obama says very grateful for India's extraordinary hospitality

Grateful for your extraordinary hospitality," said US President Barack Obama after being accorded ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan as he started his three-day State visit on Sunday.

Dressed in a dark blue suit, Obama was given a ceremonial inter-services Guard of Honour at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan after being received by President Pranab Mukherjee.

53-year old Obama will be the first US President to be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day ceremony here tomorrow.

"Its a great honour and we are so grateful for your extraordinary hospitality," Obama said after the ceremony during which he preferred to say "Namaste" with folded hands to the waiting dignitaries.