On a warm late-autumn afternoon, sunlight streamed through the open stable corridors beyond Gate 24 of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. This location is home to the President’s Bodyguard (PBG), a prestigious mounted unit that upholds an ancient tradition, meticulously maintained daily.
Firstpost obtained rare access to these exclusive stables to explore the deep emotional and institutional significance of the horses that make up this mounted regiment. In this extraordinary setting, where key ceremonies of India, the world’s largest democracy, are planned, the horses stand as regal, disciplined beings central to the identity of the PBG.
The narrative of the PBG transcends mere military history; it represents a profound relationship between humans and animals, marked by equine excellence and a continuous martial tradition. Colonel Amit Berwal, the Commandant of the President’s Bodyguard, has offered insights into the unit’s philosophy and future since his posting at Rashtrapati Bhavan in February 2023.
The PBG is a unique military entity in India, serving as the first uniformed presence seen by any visiting head of state. It embodies the country’s grace, discipline, and historical grandeur. This solemn duty is embodied by the horses that perform ceremonial functions. Being the oldest and most senior unit of the Indian Army, the PBG carries the prestigious title of ‘Right of the Line.’ Established in 1773 with contributions from Raja Chet (Chait) Singh of Varanasi, the unit was formalized as the President’s Bodyguard in 1950, marking its 75th anniversary this year.
While its ceremonial role is modern in context, the PBG is deeply rooted in historical military heritage. The regiment is prepared to execute vital diplomatic tasks at a moment’s notice, such as welcoming a visiting head of state. “We present the national salute, with a contingent of horses ready to escort the incoming dignitary before our Honourable President and the Prime Minister,” Berwal explained.
The horses are pivotal during these ceremonies, required to project India’s dignity, discipline, and strength. “The salute, the drill, the arrangement of our horses-all must serve to introduce the visiting dignitary to the essence of India, leaving them in awe,” he stated.
Only select horses can shoulder the nation’s ceremonial responsibilities. The PBG’s mounts are an elite breed, bred and trained for composure and majesty, differing significantly from more agile polo ponies. These ceremonial horses, often breeds like Hanoverians and warmbloods, are large and trained to remain calm amidst loud noises and large crowds. Berwal emphasized that the physical attributes required for this role are clear: “The horses should be tall, handsome, and imposing.”
The difference in weight between ceremonial mounts and sporting horses is considerable, often weighing hundreds of kilograms more. “They are at least 250 kg heavier than a typical polo horse,” he added. Ceremonial mounts are designed for slow, precise movements, creating an imposing presence without showing any signs of nervousness, unlike their speed-oriented counterparts.
Among the horses, Virat stands out as a national symbol. This 25-year-old Hanoverian warmblood has earned the title of the most decorated horse in the regiment, having participated in over 13 Republic Day parades. “His training involves about 45 to 50 days of intense rehearsals,” Berwal said, proudly noting that Virat has received accolades for his service, including being personally acknowledged by past leaders during national celebrations.
Despite retiring at 22, Virat enjoys a respected status among the regiment, living comfortably in the stables.
In a time dominated by drone warfare and mechanized units, the emphasis on equitation and horsemanship may seem outdated. However, Berwal asserts it remains a crucial part of leadership training, helping soldiers conquer fears and build confidence through their connections with horses. “Equitation should be an integral part of leadership development in any worthwhile army worldwide,” he asserted.
Interacting with horses fosters critical leadership qualities such as discipline, stress management, and emotional control. Berwal draws a connection between these equestrian skills and moral character, suggesting that good riders tend to exhibit kindness and restraint.
If ceremonies reflect the PBG’s external identity, polo functions as its internal training ground. The army adopted polo for its training benefits, instilling agility, timing, and coordination among both horse and rider. “Even with the decline of cavalry charges, the sport has enduring value for readiness training,” Berwal explained.
The PBG is now actively reviving its polo tradition, hosting the President’s Polo Cup annually, attended by the President of India. This revival reflects a commitment to nurturing a tradition that the Indian Polo Association maintained from within Rashtrapati Bhavan until 2004.
To excel in polo, horses must be agile and quick, necessitating a strategic adjustment in the PBG’s breeding practices. “We’re exploring thoroughbreds for their speed and agility,” Berwal shared, signaling a new direction in meeting competitive standards while supported by the military and Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The bond between rider and horse is fundamental to the PBG’s essence. Tending to a horse is akin to caring for a child, as they depend entirely on humans for their well-being. The survival of horses, especially in stressful scenarios, relies on the rider’s judgment and composure.
Berwal firmly dismissed the misconception that retired military horses are disposed of. “Horses die peacefully, just as humans do,” he stated, emphasizing that retiring horses return to their original depots for a life free from work, receiving care and respect until their natural end.
The horses of the PBG are not merely ornamental; they are vital assets in upholding the dignity and diplomatic stature required of India. Their continued excellence in drill, equitation, and leadership training underscores the relevance of this historic unit in contemporary society.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/india/exclusive-presidents-bodyguard-horses-polo-rashtrapati-bhavan-13952395.html
Category: India
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Publish Date: 2025-11-22 10:02:00
