Seven hundred million bricks. That’s how many were used to build this magnificent structure. This is the Presidential Estate. Right before you stands the President’s House. It wasn’t always known as the Presidential Estate. For years it was the Viceroy’s House a symbol of British power during the Raj. The building’s history is long and complex. It started in 1912 a project conceived after the capital moved from Kolkata to Delhi.
The architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker blended European Neoclassical styles with Indian elements. Chhatris lattice screens and elephant carvings decorate the building. Lutyens even invented his own “Delhi Order” a unique architectural style. The sandstone building is stunning. The lower portions are red the upper portions cream. The central copper dome rises 180 feet. It’s inspired by the Sanchi Stupa a testament to India’s rich history.
Beneath the dome lies the Ganatantra Mandap a hall formerly known as the Durbar Room. A Gupta-era Buddha statue resides there. The Estate isn’t just the main building. It sprawls across 320 acres. It’s one of the largest presidential residences globally. The grounds include courtyards guest rooms staff quarters and even a post office. You can imagine the life within these walls.
The first Indian resident was C Rajagopalachari. He became the Governor-General in 1948 succeeding Lord Mountbatten. Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India in 1950. He made the Presidential Estate his home. He was the first President of a republic. The building became a symbol of independent India.
The Mughal Gardens now renamed Amrit Udyan are a stunning part of the Estate. They cover 15 acres showcasing Mughal and English landscaping styles. The gardens host a spring festival called Udyanotsav. A visit to the Presidential Estate is like stepping into history. You’ll see a blend of architectural styles a story of power and a testament to India’s journey to independence.