Republic Day: Know All About President's Buggy And Coin Toss That Denied Pakistan Its Ownership
Amidst the historic commemoration of India's 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu and French President Emmanuel Macron adorned the grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, breathing life into a long-forgotten tradition.??
Replacing the usual armoured limousine, the distinguished leaders rode in a beautifully revived horse-drawn carriage for the short, decorous trip, adding a layer of richness to the occasion reminiscent of the colonial era.??
Features of President's Buggy
This six-horse-drawn carriage was owned by the Viceroy of India during British rule. Its black exterior with gold-plated rims and red velvet interiors give it a luxurious look, while the elegantly embossed Ashoka Chakra symbolises its heritage.
A symbol of timeless elegance, the presidential buggy is drawn by a mix of Indian and Austrian horses. It is not merely a mode of transportation but also a part of a significant historical narrative.?
Dispute and toss for President's Buggy
After gaining independence, India and Pakistan disputed ownership of the buggy, which became the centre of a unique decision-making process.
A coin toss, led by Colonel Thakur Govind Singh of India and Sahabzada Yaqub Khan of Pakistan, determined the fate of a luxury carriage. In a fortunate twist of fate, Colonel Singh was able to secure the buggy.
Following years of ceremonial use, the open-carriage tradition faced discontinuation in 1984 due to security concerns after the assassination of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, giving way to modern bullet-proof cars.
However, a nostalgic resurgence occurred in 2014 when President Pranab Mukherjee chose the historic buggy for the Beating Retreat ceremony. In 2017, upon taking the oath, former President Ram Nath Kovind also utilised the buggy while inspecting the Guard of Honour.
The President's Bodyguard, a.k.a Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak
The 75th Republic Day celebrations witnessed a grand return to tradition as Presidents Murmu and Macron, escorted by the venerable President's Bodyguard, "Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak", made their way along the newly redeveloped Kartavya Path.?
Founded in 1773, the President's Bodyguard (PBG) is the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army. The unit played a pivotal role in this momentous occasion while?celebrating 250 years of service.??
PBG comprises skilled cavalry horseriders, paratroopers, and an armoured fighting vehicle crew, who showcased their expertise during this momentous parade.?
Bred at the Army's Remount and Veterinary Corps depots, the horses epitomised a perfect blend of tradition and discipline.
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