Archive · 21 Aug 2026
Rashtrapati Bhavan Withdraws Suspension of Saturday Guard Ceremony
Rashtrapati Bhavan first said that a special guard ceremony would not happen on Saturday.
It said the space was needed for practice before a welcome ceremony for Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
A few hours later, it cancelled that announcement.
This means the original guard ceremony may happen after all.
The change created questions about whether Tarique Rahman’s visit to New Delhi was certain.
The usual ceremony lasts about 30 minutes.
Soldiers change places during the ceremony so a new group can take charge.
The event also includes music, salutes, and horses from the President’s Bodyguard.
Rashtrapati Bhavan withdrew its announcement suspending Saturday’s Change of Guard Ceremony within hours.
The ceremony had been cancelled to allow a full rehearsal for the ceremonial welcome of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The withdrawal was viewed as reflecting uncertainty over Tarique Rahman’s proposed visit to New Delhi.
The 30-minute ceremony is usually held every Saturday morning at Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Forecourt.
The ceremony features ceremonial guards, an Army Brass Band, and an equestrian display by the President’s Bodyguard.
- Who
- Rashtrapati Bhavan and Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman are central to the announcement.
- What
- Rashtrapati Bhavan withdrew its notice suspending Saturday’s Change of Guard Ceremony.
- When
- The suspension notice was issued on Friday and withdrawn later the same day, ahead of Saturday’s ceremony.
- Where
- The ceremony is scheduled at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
- Why
- The ceremony was initially suspended for a full rehearsal for Tarique Rahman’s ceremonial welcome; the withdrawal was seen as reflecting uncertainty over his visit.
- Ceremony
- Change of Guard Ceremony
- Usual schedule
- Saturday mornings
- Duration
- About 30 minutes
- Venue
- Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Initial reason for suspension
- A full rehearsal for the ceremonial welcome of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman
- Withdrawal timing
- Within hours of the initial announcement
- Main features
- Ceremonial guards, an Army Brass Band, national salutes, and an equestrian display by the President’s Bodyguard