Pratibha-Bhairon will be a fight between Shekhawats

New Delhi, JUne 14 (UNI) If Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat decides to contest as an Independent for the office of President, he will be facing virtually a 'home' challenger in Pratibha Patil, who was today declared UPA's presidential nominee.

A Maharashtrian, Mrs Patil is married to Mr Devi Singh Shekhawat, who hails from Chhoti Losal, a village located 30 km from Khachariawas, the native place of the Vice President. Both villages lie in Sikar district of Rajasthan.

Even though Mr Devi Singh Shekhawat migrated to Maharashtra long ago and settled down in Jalgaon, he continued to visit his home village in Rajasthan. Pratibha, informed sources said, has been keeping up the traditions and observing rituals of a daughter-in-law of the desert state whenever she comes across Mr Bhairon Singh Shekhawat.

The sources said Pratibha has a very reverential relationship with Mr Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and has been often seen touching his feet in keeping with Indian traditions.

UNI