India’s elite mounted troopers, the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) and their equine warriors, who participate in almost 70 mounted parades and rehearsals each year, have started their annual cycle of training for India’s most prestigious ceremonial events — Republic Day, Beating Retreat, and the opening day of Parliament.
President’s Bodyguard Horses getting ready for Republic Day Parade, at Rashtrapati Bhawan , in New Delhi. | Photo Credit: Sushil Kumar Verma
Inside the first citizen’s home, aided by modernisation — in terms of covered and self-sustaining training arenas and a closely monitored feeding routine assisted with supplements — the final selection of horses is pending. About 50 or 60 out of the 100-odd horses of the regiment will be chosen. This year’s parade will see a mix of veterans and young horses showcasing the discipline, training, and tradition that goes into making the Household Cavalry of the President’s House.
The PBG is the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army and has the dual mandate of both operational capability in war and serving as the Household Cavalry of the President of India in times of peace.
A scene during the musical ride by the President Bodyguard at the Mounted Gymkhana held on November 29, 1959 at Jaipur Polo ground, New Delhi. | Photo Credit: The Hindu Archives
