The President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army, made its grand presence felt at Kartavya Path as it escorted President Droupadi Murmu at the commencement of India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations on Sunday. Known as the Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak, the regiment proudly showcased India’s rich history, traditions, and military excellence.
Under the leadership of Commandant Colonel Amit Berwal, the President’s Bodyguard demonstrated unmatched military discipline and strength, mounted on magnificent bay and dark bay-colored horses. Colonel Berwal rode alongside the President’s Buggy on his charger, Glorious, while the second-in-command, Lieutenant Colonel Angad Singh Thind, rode Sultan to the left of the buggy. The ceremonial Buggy was led by Naib Risaldar Jitender on Longstride.
The core of the procession featured the Nishaan Toli, which carried the two prestigious Nishaans of the Regiment. Risaldar Major Vijay Singh, mounted on Vardaan, commanded the front division, while behind the President’s Buggy, the Trumpeter, astride Alexander, followed the Nishaan Toli.
The Rashtrapati Angrakshak (President’s Standard of Bodyguard) was carried by Risaldar Harmit Singh on Ace, while the Regimental Nishaan (Regimental Standard) was held by Risaldar Rajender Singh on Amigo. The rear division of the Bodyguard was commanded by Risaldar Satnam Singh on Arjun.
This year marked a special occasion as the President’s Bodyguard displayed the rare honor of carrying two standards—an exclusive privilege granted only to this regiment by the President in November 2023. The regiment continues to carry these standards with immense pride.
The Bodyguard’s ceremonial uniform during winter included a blue and gold pagri, a red Angrakha with a gold girdle, white gloves, white breeches, and black long boots with spurs. The iconic 9-foot 9-inch long lances, known as Ballam, were handmade and bore the traditional red and white Cavalry Colours, symbolizing the ethos of the Angrakshak. Officers and junior commissioned officers carried the Kirach, a cavalry sabre, while the mounts were adorned with traditional shabracks, throat ornaments, and white browbands, further enhancing the ceremonial display.
The President’s Bodyguard holds a revered place in India’s horse cavalry tradition, with its horses known as Surya Putra, born out of the Manthan of India’s ancient military heritage. This year also marks the Diamond Jubilee of the regiment’s designation as the President’s Bodyguard, celebrating 75 years of distinguished service.
With a legacy of valor, the President’s Bodyguard has played a key role in major military operations, including the 1962 Sino-Indian War at Chushul, the 1965 Indo-Pak War, Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka (1988), and Operation Vijay during the Kargil War (1999). The regiment has also served in peacekeeping missions and high-altitude areas like Siachen Glacier under Operation Meghdoot.
The regiment maintains a rigorous standard of excellence, with personnel selected for their physical fitness and horsemanship. The horses, bred by the Remount Veterinary Corps, are integral to the regiment’s strength, with each mount reaching a height of 15.2 hands.
The President’s Bodyguard’s motto, “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, resonates deeply as its troops continue to serve with honor, embodying the rich military history of India.
This year’s Republic Day celebrations also featured Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest. The celebrations emphasized Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation), and the 75 years since the enactment of India’s Constitution.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate, paying tribute to the brave hearts who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The day continues with President Murmu unfurling the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini.