Khatami plays down pomp

Tehran - Iran's President Mohammad Khatami (54) has taken a striking approach to the country's top elected office, playing down the hero worship and keeping in touch with voters. In contrast to predecessors, the Shia Muslim cleric has ditched many of the ceremonial trappings and pomp associated with his office. He has sparingly used the state-run media and has encouraged government offices not to hang his portrait.