New Delhi: The Change Of guard ceremony At Rashtrapati Bhavan showcases India’s rich military traditions, discipline, and ceremonial grandeur, President Droupadi Murmu said on August 31.
The President highlighted that the ceremony offers visitors a memorable glimpse into India’s proud heritage and reflects the country’s long-standing military customs. The event, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, remains one of the most important ceremonial attractions linked to the President’s House.
Change Of Guard Ceremony: President Murmu Praises India’s Military Heritage
President Droupadi Murmu shared her views on the significance of the Change Of Guard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She said the ceremony reflects India’s rich military traditions, discipline, and ceremonial excellence. According to the President, it also provides visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the nation’s proud heritage.
What Is The Change Of Guard Ceremony
The Change Of Guard Ceremony is a long-standing military tradition followed by armed forces around the world. Historically, guards stationed at palaces, forts, and important defense establishments were periodically replaced by a fresh group of troops. This practice ensured continuous security and operational readiness.
Significance of Change Of Guard Ceremony At Rashtrapati Bhavan
At Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremony symbolizes the formal transfer of ceremonial guard duties responsible for protecting the President of India. The event combines military precision, marching drills, music, and equestrian displays, making it an important ceremonial attraction for visitors.
Revamped Format Enhances Visitor Experience
The ceremony has been redesigned and shifted to the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. This change allows a larger number of visitors to witness the event and enjoy a broader visual and musical performance against the backdrop of the President’s residence.
Public-Friendly Initiative
The revamped format aims to improve public accessibility while preserving military traditions. Visitors can now observe military drills, ceremonial band performances, and mounted displays in a more open setting.
Role Of The Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion
The Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion is responsible for providing ceremonial guards and sentries for the President of India. Its personnel perform important ceremonial duties during state events and official functions at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The battalion currently performing ceremonial duties is the 1/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force), one of the oldest and most distinguished infantry battalions of the Indian Army.
Legacy Of The 1/5 Gorkha Rifles
The 1/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) was raised on May 22, 1858. Over the years, the battalion has participated in numerous military operations and earned several battle and theatre honours for its distinguished service.
Recognition For Excellence
The battalion is among the first units of the Indian Army to receive the prestigious Chief Of Army Staff Unit Citation multiple times. Its continued role in ceremonial duties highlights its importance in the Indian Army’s history and traditions.
President’s Bodyguard Plays A Key Role
The President’s Bodyguard (PBG), established in 1773, is the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army. The regiment performs ceremonial duties for the President and is known for its highly trained horsemen, tank crew members, and paratroopers.
Spectacular Mounted Display
One of the major highlights of the ceremony is the mounted display by the President’s Bodyguard. The horse-mounted troops showcase exceptional discipline, riding skills, and ceremonial excellence, attracting visitors from across the country.
How The Change Of Guard Ceremony Unfolds
The ceremony begins with the Ceremonial Band taking position. The Parade Commander then assumes command while the President’s Bodyguard enters the Forecourt with its mounted troops and horses.
Formal Exchange Of Duties
The Ceremonial Guard Battalion marches in and conducts inspections. Following the inspection, the new guard takes position alongside the old guard. Both units exchange salutes before the new guard formally assumes responsibility.
National Salute And Musical Finale
The ceremony concludes with the customary National Salute to the President. Visitors also witness a musical display by the Ceremonial Band and the playing of the National Anthem, making the event a complete showcase of India’s military traditions.
Why The Change Of Guard Ceremony Matters
The Change Of Guard Ceremony is more than a military tradition. It is a symbol of discipline, continuity, and national pride. President Murmu’s remarks underline the importance of preserving these traditions while making them more accessible to citizens and visitors. Through this ceremony, Rashtrapati Bhavan continues to showcase India’s military heritage and ceremonial excellence to the world.
Read also: Historic Move For Ladakh: President Approves High Court Bench Through Article 240 Regulation
FAQs
It is a ceremonial military event where one guard unit formally hands over duties to another while showcasing military discipline, music, and equestrian traditions.
The ceremony is generally held every Saturday at Rashtrapati Bhavan, except on gazetted holidays and special occasions.
The ceremony is conducted by the Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion and the President’s Bodyguard, supported by ceremonial military bands.
