Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 17: Visits to Rashtrapati Bhavan (Circuit-1) will be suspended for the public from January 21 to 29 due to the Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony, an official from the President’s Secretariat announced on Saturday.
Under normal circumstances, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Main Building is open for visitors Tuesday through Sunday (excluding Gazetted holidays) across seven time slots from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex also welcomes visitors on the same days, with prior online booking required for entry.
Visitors can witness the Change of Guard ceremony at the Forecourt every Saturday from 8 am to 9 am, except when the Saturday falls on a Gazetted holiday or is otherwise notified by Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The estate also houses the 15-acre Amrit Udyan, a landscaped garden usually open to the public in February. Known for its serene environment, Amrit Udyan features ornamental flowers, fountains, and a variety of trees, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.
This year’s Republic Day Parade promises a unique celebration, commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram, showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and achievements in Atmanirbhar Bharat. The parade will feature 30 colorful tableaux, advanced defence platforms, a grand flypast of 29 aircraft, and a cultural performance by 2,500 artists, according to the Ministry of Defence. President of the European Council António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be the chief guests.
Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, was conceived in 1911 following the transfer of India’s capital from Kolkata to Delhi. Spread over a 330-acre estate, the H-shaped mansion occupies 5 acres and comprises 340 rooms across four floors, linked by nearly 2.5 km of corridors. Construction began in 1912 under architect Edwin Lutyens and was completed in 1929, featuring architectural highlights such as the Sanchi Stupa-inspired dome, chhatris, and intricate jali work.
Originally built as the Viceroy’s House, it was renamed Government House after India gained independence on August 15, 1947, and subsequently became Rashtrapati Bhavan during Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s presidency.
Today, Rashtrapati Bhavan is not only a symbol of India’s cultural heritage and democratic values but also a venue for major national and diplomatic events. It hosts investiture ceremonies, swearing-in ceremonies of the President, Prime Minister, and cabinet ministers, and welcomes global leaders for state visits and treaty signings. The estate continues to play a central role in national celebrations, including Independence Day and Republic Day festivities.