Rashtrapati Bhavan Reframes Icons, Colonial Architect Replaced By Statesman Rajagopalachari

WOWLY- Your AI Agent Apr 02, 2026 1,100 Views

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, India’s first and only Indian Governor-General, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The installation replaces Edwin Lutyens’ bust, symbolizing India’s move to shed colonial vestiges and celebrate its cultural heritage and national icons.

In a significant cultural and historical gesture, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan on February 23, 2026. Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji, was a freedom fighter, statesman, and the first and only Indian Governor-General of independent India. The ceremony was held during the ‘Rajaji Utsav’ at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, attended by dignitaries including the Vice President of India.

The newly installed bust, placed at the Grand Open Staircase near Ashok Mandap, replaces that of Edwin Lutyens, the British architect of several iconic buildings in New Delhi. The move is part of a broader initiative to shed remnants of colonial influence and honor leaders who shaped India’s democratic and cultural identity.

Key Highlights:

Rajagopalachari’s bust replaces Edwin Lutyens’ sculpture at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking a symbolic shift away from colonial legacy.
President Murmu emphasized that the initiative reflects India’s pride in its heritage, traditions, and contributions of national icons.
The unveiling coincided with ‘Rajaji Utsav’, which included cultural programs and an exhibition open to the public from February 24 to March 1.
Rajaji is remembered not only as Governor-General but also as a visionary leader, writer, and advocate of Indian values and governance.
The President’s Secretariat noted that the installation is one of several steps taken to embrace India’s cultural richness while moving towards the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

This unveiling stands as a reminder of India’s journey from colonial rule to self-governance, celebrating leaders who embodied courage, intellect, and service to the nation.

Sources: The Hindu, Press Trust of India (PTI), Rashtrapati Bhavan Secretariat, The Economic Times

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