Rashtrapati Bhawan

History

Rashtrapati Bhavan also known as President's House is quite a prominent place of New Delhi. Designed by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, this was the erstwhile residence of the British Viceroy. In 1911, Rashtrapati Bhavan was built when the capital of India shifted from Calcutta to Delhi and was inaugurated on 18th January, 1927 by the then Governor General, Lord Irwin. This palace having more than 350 rooms and a floor area of 200,000 square feet was built to show the permanence of British rule in India. Until the year 1950 this palace was known as viceroy's house and was occupied by the Governor-General of India. It was in the year 1950 that the President started living in this ceremonial building and this palace was renamed as Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Significance in India:

Rashtrapati Bhavan, a perfect blend of Mughal and European architectural styles is the official residence of the President of India. This palace is one of the most significant buildings and is a real master piece built in the British period. Situated in the Raisina Hills, this palace is the center of political power in India and holds great significance in India. The huge circular edifice of the palace has circumference of about one third of a mile and it stretches across the area of six acres. This palace has great significance as it witness several crucial political and national events. The Ashoka Hall of this palace is used for formal gatherings like minister's swearing in ceremonies, accepting credential from foreign diplomats etc. Another significant hall of this palace is Durbar Hall, which comprises of golden pillars and colored marbles. This hall is twenty-three meter in diameter and has exquisitely carved Ashokan Bull sculpture at the entrance. Venue for all the official functions of the President, this Durbar Hall has witnessed several National Award ceremonies. This hall has also served as museum for several years until a National Museum was constructed.

Present Importance

Serving as the official residence of Rashtrapati of India, this palace has still maintains its significance over the period of time. The real charm of this palace lies in its huge expansive garden called Mughal Garden. This garden is open for the tourists only for the month of February and March when the garden looks at their best with beautiful flowers blooming like roses and dahlias. Ceremonial changes of the guards at this palace are also traditional and exciting events that take place every Saturday.

Its Value for National and International Tourists

Rashtrapati Bhavan not only holds dominance for major national events and functions but this monumental and historical palace is also a great tourist attraction for both national and international tourists. Tourist coming to Delhi will find it difficult to ignore the magnificence and charm of this palace as there are several highlighting features and factors that make this palace simply irresistible.

Rashtrapati Bhavan is a perfect blend of Mughal and western styles and its charm lies in its huge and expansive garden known as Mughal Garden that is spread over 130 hectares of land. This garden is opened for the general public during the month of February and March when the garden is stuffed with the blooming roses and dahlias. During all the other monthe tourists can only experience the ceremonial changing of the guards at the gate, which is just the repetition of the past traditions taking place every Saturday without a break.