One of India’s most recognizable structures is the Rashtrapati Bhawan, situated in New Delhi’s center. Up until 1950, the structure, which was once known as the Viceroy’s House under the British Raj, served as the Governor-General of India’s official residence. The President of India now resides there in an official capacity. The structure is a noteworthy example of colonial architecture and a significant Delhi landmark.
History of Rashtrapati Bhawan:
Rashtrapati Bhawan has a long history that began in the early 20th century. The structure was created by British architect Edwin Lutyens, who is also known for creating India Gate and the Parliament House, two other famous structures in Delhi. The building’s construction started in 1912 and was finished in 1929. The building’s construction took 17 years to complete, and it was opened to the public in 1931.
Looking for pg/flat/flatmates, visit our website; https://www.flatandflatmates.com/ for your one-stop solution.
The Rashtrapati Bhawan’s architecture:
Rashtrapati Bhawan’s architecture is a synthesis of Indian and Western designs. The structure is made of sandstone and is shaped like a massive H. The structure includes 340 rooms on four floors. The structure features a lovely Mughal garden and a sizable central lawn, and it is stretched out across an area of 330 acres.
The Main Building:
Rashtrapati Bhawan’s main building is a stunning structure with outstanding architectural details. The structure comprises a 145-foot-tall central dome encircled by four smaller domes. A total of four 27-foot-tall columns support the central dome. A central hall connects the two wings of the structure. The wing’s colonnades and arches are exquisite.
The Mughal Garden:
One of Rashtrapati Bhawan’s most stunning features is the Mughal Garden. The garden has a 13-acre footprint and was created in the Mughal style. Roses, dahlias, and marigolds are just a few of the many types of plants and flowers in the garden. Water features in the area also include fountains and a lotus pool. Throughout the spring, the park is accessible to the general public.
The Central Lawn:
The 200 acres that make up Rashtrapati Bhawan’s center lawn are a huge expanse of vegetation. There are various walking routes and trees all around the lawn. The yearly Beating Retreat ceremony is one of the many occasions and activities held on the lawn.
The Museum of the Presidential Palace:
Public access is available at the Presidential Palace Museum, which is housed inside Rashtrapati Bhawan. A collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the President’s office and India’s history may be found in the museum. The museum also houses a collection of presents that the President received from different nations.
The Changing of the Guard Ceremony:
Popular events like the Changing of the Guard Ceremony are held in Rashtrapati Bhawan. The public is welcome to attend the ritual, which is held every Saturday and Sunday morning. The President’s Bodyguard, the world’s oldest surviving cavalry regiment, conducts the ceremony.
The Presidential Residence:
The President of India’s residence is housed inside Rashtrapati Bhawan and is known as the Presidential Residence. The house features a study, a living room, a dining room, and a number of bedrooms. Various pieces of furniture and artwork from India are used to embellish the home. The mansion is also home to the President’s family.
The Durbar Hall:
One of Rashtrapati Bhawan’s most significant spaces is the Durbar Hall. The Indian Prime Minister’s swearing-in ceremony is one of the official rituals and events held at the hall. Beautiful Indian mythological and historical images are painted on the hall’s ceiling. A four-ton chandelier is another feature of the room.
The Jaipur Column:
Rashtrapati Bhawan is notable for The Jaipur Column. The 145-foot-tall sandstone column is built of this material. In honor of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur, who backed the British during the 1857 Indian Rebellion, the column was constructed. The column is encircled by four smaller columns and has a dome-shaped structure at the top.
The library:
One of the biggest presidential libraries in the world is the one at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Over 200,000 volumes and manuscripts, including rare and priceless literature from many regions of the world, are housed in the library. Scholars and researchers are welcome to use the library.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony:
Every January 29th at Rashtrapati Bhawan, a military tradition known as the Beating Retreat Ceremony is held. The President of India and other dignitaries attend the ceremony, which officially ends Republic Day festivities. Military bands perform throughout the event, and the national flag is lowered.
Presidential Retreat:
At the peak of the Shimla Hills in Himachal Pradesh sits the Presidential Retreat, the President of India’s secondary house. The President spends his vacations there and hosts talk with foreign leaders there. Beautiful gardens and a helicopter are available at the retreat for the president’s use.
Conclusion
Rashtrapati Bhawan is a significant institution in contemporary India as well as a representation of India’s colonial heritage, to sum up. The building draws tourists from all around the world with its exquisite architecture and lovely gardens. Rashtrapati Bhawan’s various components, including the main structure, the Mughal Garden, the Presidential Palace Museum, and the Durbar Hall, each have their own special allure. Rashtrapati Bhawan is a must-see location whether you’re interested in architecture, or history, or simply want to take in the splendor of India’s Presidential palace.
For daily updates and more blogs, follow us at; https://blog.flatandflatmates.in/
Leave a Reply