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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
The presidential buggy, with its gold-plated rims and red velvet interiors, was a prominent fixture in Republic Day functions until 1984.
NEW DELHI: The traditional horse-drawn presidential buggy made a grand return to the Republic Day celebrations after a hiatus of 40 years. President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by French President Emmanuel Macron, arrived at Kartavaya Path in the colonial-era open-air buggy.
The presidential buggy, with its gold-plated rims and red velvet interiors, was a prominent fixture in Republic Day functions until 1984. However, security concerns following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi led to its discontinuation, and subsequent Republic Day events saw presidents using armoured limousines for travel.
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For this year’s 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu and President Macron rode the six-horse drawn buggy, waving to crowds as they approached the Kartavaya Path. The buggy, originally belonging to the Viceroy of India during British rule, holds historical significance.
The 75th Republic Day Parade showcased the nation’s extraordinary Nari Shakti as impressive march-pasts by women received standing ovation by the invitees. President Droupadi Murmu and the French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at the Kartavya Path in the traditional buggy… pic.twitter.com/y2wE0VTxOu
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 26, 2024
The destiny of the buggy was determined by a coin toss between India and Pakistan after the end of colonial rule. Colonel Thakur Govind Singh, representing India, won the toss, securing the buggy for India.
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The black-coloured carriage, adorned with gold-plated rims, was utilised for ceremonial purposes and to transport the head of state from Rashtrapati Bhavan to Parliament for the oath-taking ceremony. Additionally, it played a role in the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk on Kartavya Path, marking the conclusion of Republic Day celebrations.
Following Independence, security concerns prompted the discontinuation of the open-carriage, with bullet-proof cars taking its place. However, in 2014, then-President Pranab Mukherjee reinstated the tradition by arriving in the buggy for the Beating Retreat ceremony.
The return of the presidential buggy adds a touch of historical continuity to the 75th Republic Day celebrations.
