8230; Meanwhile,Modi keeps a safe distance

Arrangements were made in such a way that Modi and Advani would sit on the ornamental chairs,which were kept in the middle of the stage alongside a series of sofas. But,in full view of the public,Modi made way for state BJP president R C Faldu to sit next to Advani as he sat away on the regular seats with his ministers.

The last time the two leaders were together was on September 17 at Modis Sadbhavana Mission fast in Ahmedabad.

Earlier in the day,Advanis yatra entered Gujarat through Dabhal checkpost from Daman amid shower of flowers from a helicopter. The former deputy prime minister was received by Modi,Faldu and several state ministers and leaders.

Over 400 women dressed in saffron sarees with pot on their heads welcomed the BJP veteran. Later,nearly 2,000 workers from BJPs youth wing from Surat,Valsad,Navsari and Vapi took out a rally from Vapi along with Advanis yatra.