Rashtrapati Bhavan, situated on Raisina Hill in the heart of Delhi, is not only the residence of the President of India, but is also a witness to the history of the country. Today we will tell you about the history hidden behind this magnificent building, after listening to which you will get a chance to see Rashtrapati Bhavan from a different perspective.
Table of Contents
Rashtrapati Bhavan: Information
| Location | Rajpath, New Delhi |
| Type | Official Residence |
| Also Known as | President House, Presidential Residence |
| Formerly Known as | Viceroy’s House |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; prior permission and booking required |
| Entry Fee | ₹50 per person per circuit (for individuals or a group of fewer than 30 people) |
| ₹1200 per person (for a group of 30 people) | |
| ₹1200 per person + ₹50 per additional visitor (for a group of more than 30 people) | |
| No charges for visitors below 8 years of age | |
| Circuits and Timings | Circuit 1: Central Lawn and Main Building (Thursday to Sunday) |
| Circuit 2: Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex (RBMC) (Closed on Mondays) | |
| Circuit 3: Gardens (Thursday to Sunday; from August to March) | |
| All circuits are closed on gazetted holidays | |
| Change of Guard Ceremony | Saturdays and Sundays |
| Timings of Change of Guard Ceremony | Saturdays 8:00 am to 8:40 am (15 March to 14 November) |
| 10:00 am to 10:40 am (15 November to 14 March) | |
| Sundays 5:30 pm to 6:10 pm (15 March to 14 November) | |
| 4:30 pm to 5:10 pm (15 November to 14 March) | |
| Architectural Style | A blend of classical European and Indian architectural styles |
| Architects | Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker |
| Construction Period | 1911 to 1929 |
| Area | 321 acres |
| Floor Area | 2,00,000 sq. ft. |
| First Occupant | Lord Irwin |
| Current Occupant | Ram Nath Kovind, the current President of India |
| Cost of Construction | 14 million Indian rupees |
| Nearest Metro Station | Central Secretariat (on the Yellow/Violet Line) |
| Online Booking (Rashtrapati Bhavan) | http://rashtrapatisachivalaya.gov.in/rbtour/ |
| Online Booking (Change of Guard) | https://rb.nic.in/rbvisit/visit_plan.aspx |
Rashtrapati Bhavan: History
A Mark of British Rule
In 1911, Delhi was transferred from Calcutta as the capital of India. At that time the British decided to build a grand residence for their Viceroy. This was the decision that started the story of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
17 Years in the Making
British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens was entrusted with the responsibility of designing this building. He gave this building a unique look by mixing Indian and Western styles. Construction work started in 1912 and after about 17 years, in 1929, this building was completed.
Effort of Thousands of Hands
The construction of such a huge and beautiful building was not easy. About 29,000 artisans worked day and night in this. Their artistry and hard work is the real secret of the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
One Name, Many Stories
Initially, this building was known as Viceroy House. After India’s independence, it was named Rashtrapati Bhavan in 1950. With this name change, this building changed from just a residence to become a symbol of the highest post in the country.
An Interesting Anecdote: The Shadow of War
The First World War had also taken place during the construction of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Due to the war, the construction work was delayed and there were many difficulties in completing the building. It is said that during the war, this incomplete building was also used as a hospital.
Rashtrapati Bhavan: Architecture
A Blend of East and West
Just by looking at the architecture of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, one can understand that a beautiful blend of Indian and Western styles has been used in its construction. This building made of red sandstone looks grand in itself, while the white marble used in the upper parts gives it a different shine.
A Glimpse of Mughal Influence
If you look closely, you will see a glimpse of Mughal architecture in the arches and latticed windows of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. These designs not only enhance the beauty of the building, but also reflect the rich historical tradition of India.
The Central Dome: A Symbol of Power
The huge dome built in the middle of the Rashtrapati Bhavan is a symbol of its grandeur. It is said that the design of this dome is inspired by the Buddhist Stupa of Sanchi. Below the dome is the main entrance of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, which has to be crossed to reach the Darbar Hall.
Embrace of Greenery
The Rashtrapati Bhavan is surrounded by lush green lawns and beautiful gardens on all sides. These gardens are built in the Mughal Garden style and you will find different varieties of flowers here. This greenery not only enhances the beauty of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, but also helps in reducing pollution.
A Heritage of Art
The artwork on the walls of the Rashtrapati Bhavan is also worth seeing. Indian artists have shown their skills on these walls. Here you can also see glimpses of the Mughal painting style. These artworks not only enhance the beauty of the building, but also pay respect to the artistic tradition of India.
The Mughal Gardens, Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan is not just a magnificent building, but also a witness to the history of India. If you want, you can relive the pages of history by visiting the museum here (Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum). However, this museum is closed on Mondays, so make sure you visit on some other day of the week.
The Colorful World of Flowers: Mughal Gardens
The specialty of Rashtrapati Bhavan is its Mughal Gardens. These gardens open only in the months of February-March, so if you want to see the beauty of flowers, you will have to wait a bit. But at the end of May, you can keep an eye on the website of Rashtrapati Bhavan, maybe some special event is being organized, where you can get a glimpse of the garden.
What’s Special Today?
The Changing of the Guard Ceremony of Rashtrapati Bhavan will not be held today. This is because the rehearsals for the Republic Day Parade and Retreat Ceremony are going on. But you can visit the official website of Rashtrapati Bhavan to get information about upcoming programs and plan your trip.
Preparing to Visit Rashtrapati Bhavan
It is necessary to get permission online in advance to visit Rashtrapati Bhavan. So apply on the website as soon as possible. Keep in mind that Rashtrapati Bhavan is closed on Mondays.
Things to See in the Rashtrapati Bhavan Complex
Circuit 1 (Central Lawn & Main Building):
- Forecourt
- Central Lawn
- Central Dome
- Banquet Hall
- Durbar Hall
- Library
- North Drawing Room
- Ashok Hall
- Navachara
- Long Drawing Room
- Iron Gate
- Tuscan Pillars
- Jaipur Column
Circuit 2 (Museum):
- The Clock Tower
- The Stables
- The Garages
Circuit 3 (Gardens)
- Mughal Gardens
- Herbal Garden
- Musical Garden
- Spiritual Garden
Lesser Known Facts about Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi
Rashtrapati Bhavan is known for its grandeur and history, but many unique stories are also associated with it. Come, today we know about some of these interesting things, which you may not have heard before.
Missing Silverware!
It is said that after India’s independence, when Rashtrapati Bhavan was being made Rashtrapati Bhavan from Viceroy House, the silver utensils used to serve food here disappeared. Till date it has not been known where these utensils went.
Haunted By Ghosts?
Some people believe that Rashtrapati Bhavan is haunted by ghosts. Perhaps these rumours may have spread due to it being such a large building and being quiet most of the time. However, there is no concrete evidence behind these stories.
A Mini-City of 750 People!
Do not make the mistake of considering Rashtrapati Bhavan as just a building. It is a small city in itself, where about 750 people live and work. These people play an important role in the maintenance, security and smooth running of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Respect for the National Bird!
Peacocks can be easily seen in the premises of Rashtrapati Bhavan. This is not a coincidence, but they are allowed to live here in respect of the national bird peacock.
Following the Tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava”
Many recipes used for cooking in Rashtrapati Bhavan have been passed down from generation to generation. These special recipes were made to welcome dignitaries from all over the world. Even today, foreign guests are welcomed with the spirit of “Atithi Devo Bhava” using these recipes.
Attractions near Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib (1 km)
- National Museum (1.5 km)
- Nehru Planetarium (1.8 km)
- Teen Murti Bhavan (1.9 km)
- Gandhi Smriti (2 km)
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib (2.5 km)
- India Gate (2.9 km)
- Jantar Mantar (3.2 km)
- Humayun’s Tomb (6.9 km)
- Jama Masjid (7.4 km)
- Red Fort (7.8 km)