New Winter Timings Announced
The Change of Guard Ceremony at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan will now take place between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM starting Saturday, November 22, 2025. The adjustment comes in view of the winter season, ensuring more comfortable conditions for both the ceremonial troops and the public attending the event.
The announcement was made through an official release by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), and the revised schedule will remain in effect until further notice. Visitors are advised to check the Rashtrapati Bhavan website regularly for updates or changes, especially during winter months when visibility and weather conditions may vary.
A Tradition of Discipline and Dignity
The Change of Guard Ceremony stands as one of India’s most admired military traditions. Performed with precision and ceremonial grandeur, the event symbolizes the seamless transfer of responsibility from one guard contingent to another. It showcases the professionalism and discipline of the Indian armed forces, particularly the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) and the Indian Army contingents involved in the parade.
The ceremony includes a coordinated display of marching, inspection, and musical accompaniment by military bands. As the oldest surviving mounted unit of the Indian Army, the President’s Bodyguard plays a central role, and their participation has become a key attraction for both domestic and international guests.
With the winter season setting in across northern India, the shift in timing ensures that the traditional ceremony can continue smoothly while accommodating changing weather patterns, especially early morning fog and dropping temperatures.
A Popular Draw for Tourists and Civilians
Over recent years, the Change of Guard event has grown in popularity, with thousands of tourists attending every month. As one of the few open-access ceremonial traditions at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremony offers a rare glimpse into the discipline and culture of India’s elite military units.
The event is open to the public free of cost, though visitors must follow standard security protocols and obtain entry passes online. The new winter timings are expected to improve visitor experience by ensuring better visibility and more comfortable temperatures during the ceremony.
The government has also been promoting cultural and ceremonial events at the Rashtrapati Bhavan as part of wider initiatives to enhance public engagement.
The Significance of the Winter Schedule
India’s winters, particularly in Delhi, bring colder mornings and fog that can affect open-air ceremonies. Historically, the Rashtrapati Bhavan has updated the schedule of the Change of Guard Ceremony seasonally to ensure public safety and operational efficiency.
The 2025 winter schedule is consistent with previous years, striking a balance between maintaining tradition and accommodating practical necessities. The ceremony’s uninterrupted conduct underscores the armed forces’ commitment to ceremonial heritage, even amidst seasonal changes.
