President Murmu Observes New Format of Change of Guard Ceremony

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President Murmu Observes New Format of Change of Guard Ceremony

Synopsis

On February 16, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu observed the first presentation of the Change of Guard Ceremony in its new format at Rashtrapati Bhavan, which will be publicly accessible from February 22, 2025.

Key Takeaways

  • President Murmu attended the inaugural Change of Guard Ceremony.
  • The ceremony features a new dynamic format open to the public.
  • Military drills and performances by the President's Bodyguard are included.
  • The event signifies military tradition and discipline.
  • It is a captivating cultural spectacle against a historic backdrop.

New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday attended the inaugural performance of the Change of Guard Ceremony presented in a new style at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This ceremony will open to the public beginning February 22, 2025.

The updated format provides a vibrant visual and musical display against the striking backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Participating in this new format are military drills by the troops and horses of the President's Bodyguard, as well as the troops from the Ceremonial Guard Battalion, alongside the Ceremonial Military Brass Band, all set in a more expansive area.

As noted by Rashtrapati Bhavan, this Change of Guard ceremony is a cherished military tradition that dates back to the past, involving the regular replacement of guards and sentries at various military establishments.

This ritual signifies more than just security; it embodies vigilance, discipline, tradition, and continuity. Each week, the President’s Bodyguard and the Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion jointly perform the ceremonial change of guard, as per details from Rashtrapati Bhavan's official site.

This magnificent event, held weekly at Gate No. 1 of Rashtrapati Bhavan, showcases India's rich military heritage, demonstrating the discipline and precision of the Armed Forces.

The ceremony is visually striking against the historic architecture of the venue. This 30-minute event begins with troops from the President’s Bodyguard, mounted on their splendidly adorned and meticulously groomed horses, moving in from behind the Jaipur Column to the stirring melodies of the Army Brass Band.

The President’s Bodyguard and the Army Guard, dressed in pristine uniforms, stand at attention, exemplifying the pinnacle of military decorum. The formal procession features soldiers marching with exceptional precision, with the President’s Bodyguard flanking the Army Guard on their majestic steeds, all accompanied by the resonating sounds of military music. The exactness of their movements showcases the rigorous training and commitment of these soldiers.

The ceremony concludes with a spectacular equestrian display by the President’s Bodyguard, which serves as the ceremony's highlight, followed by the National Anthem.

The stunning backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhavan, with its remarkable architecture and verdant gardens, enhances the grandeur of the ceremony. Visitors are often captivated by the tranquil beauty of the surroundings, transforming the Change of Guard into a lively cultural event, according to the official website of Rashtrapati Bhavan.