President Droupadi Murmu witnessed the inaugural performance of the newly designed Change of Guard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 16 February 2025. The historic event, held at the grand Forecourt of the President’s official residence, had been redesigned to be more inviting and accessible to the public.
The Change of Guard Ceremony, a long-standing tradition, involved one group of soldiers handing over their duty of protecting Rashtrapati Bhavan to another. In its new format, the ceremony had become more visually impressive and dynamic. The President’s Bodyguard, the oldest and most prestigious company of the Indian Army, served precise and disciplined military drills along with their well-trained horses. They were joined by troops from the Ceremonial Guard Battalion and a Military Brass Band, creating a stunning combination of military precision, music, and tradition. The performance took place over a larger area, allowing more visitors to witness and appreciate the grandeur of the event.
An interesting part of this change was that the ceremony would now be open to a larger audience every Saturday, starting from February 22, 2025. This meant that more people, including citizens and tourists, would have the opportunity to witness this grand display of military discipline against the magnificent backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Those interested in attending could book their slots online at visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in.
With these updates, the Change of Guard Ceremony evolved beyond a routine duty into a vibrant and patriotic visitor experience. The blend of well-coordinated military movements, ceremonial horses, and live music created a powerful display of tradition and honor. This new format ensured that the ceremony remained both relevant and enjoyable, making Rashtrapati Bhavan even more welcoming to the public. (PR)