Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi: A Majestic Residence of the President of India

Rashtrapati Bhavan, also known as the President House, is the official residence of the President of India at the western end of Rajpath in New Delhi, India. It is a splendid and magnificent building that epitomizes India’s strength, its democratic traditions and secular character. Rashtrapati Bhavan was designed by architects of exceptional imagination and masterfulness, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker.

It was constructed between 1912 and 1929 as the Viceroy’s House, the residence of the British representative in India. After India’s independence in 1947, it became the home of the President of India. Visit during Delhi Local sightseeing By cab

Overview of Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan is a grand and majestic complex that consists of various attractions and features that showcase the history and culture of India. The main attraction of the complex is the Rashtrapati Bhavan itself, a palatial building that covers an area of 5 acres on a 330 acre estate. It has 340 rooms spread over four floors, including the president’s official residence, offices, guest rooms and reception halls.

The building is a blend of Indian and European architectural styles, with a central dome, jaali screens, chhajjas, chhatris and columns. The building is adorned with various artworks and sculptures that depict the diversity and richness of India. The building also houses a museum that displays various artifacts and memorabilia related to the presidents of India and their tenure

The complex also features various gardens and lawns that enhance the beauty and serenity of the place. The most famous among them is the Mughal Garden, which is inspired by the gardens of Taj Mahal and Kashmir. The garden has various varieties of flowers, plants and trees, arranged in geometric patterns and terraces. The garden also has fountains, pools, canals and pavilions that add to its charm. The garden is open to public during February-March every year as part of Udyan Utsav. Other gardens in the complex include the Herbal Garden, the Spiritual Garden, the Musical Garden and the Bonsai Garden.

The complex also features various other attractions such as the Ashoka Hall, which is used for ceremonial functions and state banquets; the Durbar Hall, which is used for swearing-in ceremonies and civil investitures; the North Block and South Block, which house various ministries and offices of the government; and the Rashtrapati Nilayam, which is a retreat for the president in Hyderabad.

Rashtrapati Bhavan Location/ Timing and Entry Fees

Rashtrapati Bhavan is located at Brassey Avenue, Central Secretariat, New Delhi. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, auto-rickshaw or taxi. The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat on the Yellow Line and Violet Line, which is about 2 km away from the complex. From there, one can walk or take an auto-rickshaw to the entrance gate.

Rashtrapati Bhavan is open to public from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It is closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. It is also closed on national holidays and on special occasions as notified by Rashtrapati Bhavan.

How to Reach Rashtrapati Bhavan

There are various ways to reach Rashtrapati Bhavan from different parts of Delhi and nearby cities. Here are some of the options:

• By Metro: The most convenient and economical way to reach Rashtrapati Bhavan is by metro. The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat on the Yellow Line and Violet Line, which is about 2 km away from the complex. From there, one can walk or take an auto-rickshaw to the entrance gate.
• By Bus: There are several buses that ply to and from Rashtrapati Bhavan from different parts of Delhi. Some of the bus routes are 505, 522, 604, 620, 729, etc. One can alight at Rashtrapati Bhavan bus stop and walk to the complex gate.
• By Auto-Rickshaw or Taxi: One can also hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi from any part of Delhi to reach Rashtrapati Bhavan. The fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
• By Car: If one has a private car or a rented vehicle, one can drive to Rashtrapati Bhavan by following the directions on Google Maps or other navigation apps. There is a parking lot near the entrance gate where one can park their vehicle for a nominal fee.

Significance of Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan is not only a splendid and magnificent place but also a historic and symbolic site that represents the dignity and democracy of India. It is a place where the head of the state resides and performs his constitutional and ceremonial duties. It is a place where the president hosts various dignitaries and guests from India and abroad. It is a place where the president confers various awards and honors to the citizens of India for their achievements and contributions. It is a place where the president addresses the nation on various occasions such as Republic Day and Independence Day.

Rashtrapati Bhavan also reflects the culture and heritage of India, as it showcases various artworks and artifacts that depict the diversity and richness of India. It also preserves various relics and memorabilia that relate to the history and evolution of India as a nation. It also hosts various cultural and educational programs and events that promote the values and ideals of India.

Rashtrapati Bhavan also embodies the vision and mission of its architects, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, who designed it as a symbol of imperial power and prestige. However, after India’s independence, it became a symbol of national pride and sovereignty. It also underwent various changes and modifications to suit the needs and aspirations of independent India.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

Rashtrapati Bhavan is a unique and inspiring place that offers a glimpse of the dignity and democracy of India.