The President's Men

The President's Men, By Mohsin Javed
In the year 1773 India was a dramatic stage on which incredible historic dramas were playing out. The Mughal empire was crumbling Amid chaos, rose and one group of players. The British with Warren Hasting as their first Governor-General. Hasting handpicked 50 brave Indian men to serve as bodyguards. master horsemen expert with the sword and lance. With independence they became the horse-mounted bodyguard to the president of India. Ceremonial performers in peacetime and skilled combat paratroopers and tank men.
Today, they symbolize India's pride, glory, and dignity. Almost 250 years later this elite group of soldiers are still centre stage. They are the President's Bodyguards.

The President's Bodyguard during the change of guard ceremony, By Mohsin Javed
The Change of Guard ceremony is a military tradition whose origins are lost in antiquity. From time immemorial, guards and sentries at palaces, forts and defence establishments change periodically to enable a fresh body of troops to take charge. At Rashtrapati Bhavan the Ceremonial Army Guard battalion is responsible for providing ceremonial guards and sentries for the President of India.

The Return - The President's Bodyguard, By Mohsin Javed

The ceremony has been revamped and relocated to make it more visually appealing and public friendly. An equestrian display by the Presidents' Bodyguard in their ceremonial regalia has been added and the venue has been shifted to the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, with easier public access. The thirty-minute ceremony commences with the PBG troops, astride their caparisoned, powerful and well-groomed steeds advancing from behind the Jaipur Column to the tunes played by the Army Brass Band. Thereafter the Parade Commander marches in, on whose ‘word of command’ the guard of 8th Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (Siachen), marches in. After inspection, the new guard takes position along the old guard and both the guards exchange the national salute. Thereafter the new guard takes over the duties of guards and sentries. The ceremony ends with an equestrian display by the PBG and playing of the National Anthem. 

Change of Guard Ceremony is held on every Saturday and Sunday at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

All Photos © Mohsin Javed