 Formerly
kown as the Viceroy's Lodge, Rashtrapati Bhawan is the
highlight of Jutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a
cost of 12,53,000. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has
340 rooms. At one time, 2,000 people were required to look after the
building and serve the Viceroy's household.
The Viceroy's throne, ceremonially placed in this chamber, faced the
main entrance and commanded a view along the great axial vista of
'Kingsway', now known as Rajpath. Presently the hall is the
venue of all official ceremonies such as the swearing in of the Prime
Minister, the Cabinet and the Members of Parliament.
The columns at the front entrance have bells carved into their
capitals. The principal floor comprises a magnificent series of
state apartments. The State Drawing Room is barrel-vaulted and plainly
treated with domestic fireplaces. The State Ballroom is enriched with
old English mirror glass. The State Library is based on the form of
Wren's St Stephen's, Walbrook. The State Dining Room is lined with
teak paneling enriched with the star of India.
The concept of Imperial order and hierarchy pass through the entire
house. Marble staircases flanking the Durbar Hall provide access to
the private apartments above. There are 54 bedrooms together with
additional accommodation for guests. The Durbar Hall served as a
museum for several years till the building that now houses the
National Museum was completed.
It has an impressive garden called the MUGHAL GARDENS, which is
open to public once in a year, usually in February and March.
The Mughal Gardens
To the west of the house overlooks the beautiful Mughal Gardens,
terraced at three levels, designed by Lutyens. A series of ornamental
fountains, walls, gazebos and screens combine with scores of trees,
flowers and shrubs to create a paradise so delightful that Indians
called the garden 'God's own Heaven'. It is open to the public during
the spring season only. |
