Historic and Memorable Inauguration.

Democrat Senator Barack H. Obama officially became the 44^th President of America after he was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts on Tuesday, 20^th January, 2009. History would record that he is the first African-American to assume this Office. His ascent has been remarkable and noteworthy in that he got elected after two years of hard fought canvassing. His rhetoric speeches that emphasized the need for a change in the governance appealed to the American citizens to support him.

Being in Hyderabad, I watched the inauguration programme live on TV from 9:30 PM till 11:00 PM – Indian Standard Time (11:00 AM to 12:30 PM- EST). It was interesting throughout. Well planned, precisely timed, and orderly.

Senator Joe Biden repeated the oath perfectly as he was sworn in as Vice- President.

On the contrary, there was a split second awkward moment when Obama repeated the oath. He paused for a while unable to grasp the words read fast by Chief Justice Roberts. It was not nervous, but the oath read by Chief Justice Roberts was fast, which ought to have been slow. That is what I felt. A TV channel reported that Chief Justice Roberts administered the oath once again at the white house.

The Inaugural speech of President Obama was precise, highlighting dominating issues, both internal and international, and a determination to meet them. Though inspirational and appealing, the speech did not contain forceful messages that could have been listed as famous quotable quotes. Nevertheless, it emphasized the need for change in the attitudinal approach of Americans towards their domestic issues, and an America that is open to governments across the globe to solve problems with diplomacy than with military power.

President Obama projected the spirit of optimism to bring about a change to renew America.

In its leader-Renewing America- in the edition of January 17^th 2009, The Economist writes that:

Mr. Obama seems to be different. By offering the most prized cabinet job to his rival, Hillary Clinton, and by keeping on Robert Gates, the defence secretary, who has done a good job, Mr. Obama has shown a determination not to surround himself with cronies. He has put together a team which has impressed almost everyone with its caliber and its centrism. He has been tough already, dispatching blunderers and being prepared to admit mistakes. He has repeatedly warned Americans that he will have to do unpleasant things.

The next four, or eight, years may be a disappointment, a triumphant renewal or something in between. Mr. Obama is inexperienced, and right now the world looks especially forbidding. But he is respectful and thoughtful man, and that is a good start.

Everyone hopes so.