Changing Of Guards Happens At Rashtrapati Bhavan Every Weekend And Here Is Your Guide

The kids and I were in London last year and I took them to see the ‘Changing of The Guards’ at the Buckingham Palace. The entire ceremony is just so regal. We stood in the rain to see this spectacle. The crowds were cheering as the cavalry and band marched by to merry tunes.

Did you know that India has its own ‘Change of Guards’ at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi? If you thought that it happens only during Republic Day week then you are wrong!

What is the Change of Guards

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The Change of Guards is a military tradition, where from time immemorial, guards and sentries at palaces, forts and defence establishments change periodically to enable a fresh body of troops to take charge of protecting the structure they guard. This tradition was revamped and started again in 2012 when President Pranab Mukherjee took office. He wanted this ceremony to be open to the public and moved into the Forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

What Do You Get To See

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They have an equestrian display where horses and the soldiers’ in ceremonial regalia march in harmony with the music of a military brass band. The 30-minute ceremony commences with the President’s Body Guards (PBG) troops, advancing from behind the Jaipur column to the tune of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ played by the Army Brass Band. The Army Guard contingent then marches in and the change of guards takes place.

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The ceremony ends with an equestrian display by the PBG before they ride back towards the Rashtrapati Bhavan with the National Anthem playing.

What The Kids (And You!) Will Love

• The kids will really enjoy the equestrian show. The horses are specially handpicked for this ceremony. The horses have to be more than 15.2 hands and are adorned with shabracks, throat ornaments and white brow bands. The entire show is extremely regal.
• The show will give them a peek into the ceremonies and traditions of the government, something they only learn about at school. Great place to take kids when they start on civic studies at school.
• It’s open to the public
• No bookings are required to attend the ceremony and you can watch it free of charge.

When Can You See It: Every Saturday

• 8:00 AM to 8:40 AM – 15th March to 14th August
• 9:00 AM to 9:40 AM – 15th August to 14th November
• 10:00 AM to 10:40 AM – 15th November to 14th March

The ceremony may be cancelled if there are adverse ground or weather conditions.

Where: Rashtrapati Bhavan (Gate No. 2)

Contact:Rashtrapati Bhavan Reception – 23013287 / 23015321 Ext. 4662, 4751

Documents needed: Only a valid photo ID card is required at the place of entry

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