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Originally built to affirm the eternalness of the British Empire in India, in the present day, Rashtrapati Bhawan represents the world’s largest democracy. It is the official residence of the President of India. Designed by Edwin Landseer Lutyens, Rashtrapati Bhawan covers an area of 200,000 square feet. It took 17 years, 700 million bricks and Rs. 14 million to build 4 floors and 340 rooms. In other words, the enormity, magnificence and grandeur of the place is simply incomparable.
Special Attractions in and around Rashtrapati Bhawan
In 1911 in the Delhi Durbar, the British Empire decided to shift the capital of India from Calcutta to Delhi. The decision to build a residence for the British Viceroy in Delhi was also made at the same time. The result was the grandiose Viceroy’s House. On 26th January 1950, Dr, Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, occupied the building to protect and implement the Constitution of India. Thereafter, Viceroy’s House became Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India.
The most astounding region of Rashtrapati Bhawan is the Mughal Gardens, which is spread over an area of 13 acres. The largest portion (200 meters by 175 meters) of the garden is the Main Garden. Two longitudinal strips of terrace gardens form the northern and southern boundaries of this garden. Purdha Garden or Long Garden is situated on the western side of the Main Garden. Further towards the west is the Butterfly or Circular Garden. Innumerable variety of indigenous and exotic plants embellish the Mughal Gardens and provide a visual treat in the months of February and March, when the garden is in full bloom.
Another prominent feature of Rashtrapati Bhawan is the gigantic dome, which literally superimposes the entire structure. The 145 feet high Jaipur Column further enhances the splendor of this marvelous building. At the top of the column is a bronze lotus from which rises a six-pointed glass star. The Maharaja of Jaipur bore the cost of the column, thus it is named so. Other spectacular regions of Rashtrapati Bhawan are Ashoka Hall, Yellow Drawing Room, Museum, Banquet Hall, North Drawing Room, Marble Hall and Durbar Hall.
Timings
The best time to visit Rashtrapati Bhawan is in the months of February and March, when the doors of the majestic Mughal Gardens are thrown open for the public. At other times, you would require special permits. Tourists can visit the garden between 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM on all days except Mondays.
Location of Rashtrapati Bhawan
State: Delhi
Tourist Attractions near Rashtrapati Bhawan
India Gate, the war memorial built in the memory of 80,000 soldiers, who lost their lives in World War I, is a major tourist attraction near Rashtrapati Bhawan. After independence, another memorial called Amar Jawan Jyoti was built at the base of India Gate. The eternal flame was lighted to honour unknown soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Close by is the National Museum, which houses 200,000 exquisite works of art representing 5,000 years old Indian cultural heritage. National Archives and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) are other major tourist attractions near Rashtrapati Bhawan.
This article was contributed by Anubha Shyam
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