From Wikipedia:
Symbol of peace
In ancient times, shoes predominantly served as military equipment. Therefore Isaiah announced that "For every boot... will be for burning, food for the fire. For to us a child has come, to us a son is given." (Isaiah 9:5-6). Jesus advised his disciples to go out for preaching the Kingdom of God without taking along shoes -- and Jesus is shown barefoot on most paintings to demonstrate his peaceful mission.
One way to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi, is to walk barefoot around his monument. Even Pope John Paul II and George W. Bush paid him this honor, as shoes are banned within Gandhi's memorial site, Raj Ghat.
Maybe one of Gandhi's palace guards knows.
Or maybe Dubyah had them rub oil all over his bald head.
G.W. if you're reading this.....bwhah hahahaha...sorry, i can't finish....hahahahaha.