2 min learnNew DelhiUp to date: Aug 21, 2026 04:41 PM IST
In an uncommon transfer on Friday, Rashtrapati Bhavan recalled an announcement that referred to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s go to to Delhi, which was believed to begin a day later. The assertion was recalled lower than an hour after it was launched.
The unique assertion – printed at 2 pm – stated there could be no change of guard on the day owing to rehearsals forward of the Bangladesh chief’s ceremonial reception.
The assertion – ‘No change of guard ceremony this Saturday’ – stated: “The Change of Guard Ceremony on the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan is not going to happen this Saturday (August 22, 2026) because of the full rehearsal for the ceremonial welcome of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.”
Nonetheless, Rahman’s go to – his first since being sworn in as his nation’s chief – has not but been formally introduced, both by New Delhi or Dhaka, which doubtless prompted Rashtrapati Bhavan’s recall. A brand new assertion – despatched at round 3 pm merely stated, “Press launch issued on the topic ‘No Change of Guard Ceremony this Saturday’, which was issued on August 21, 2026, stands withdrawn.”
For visiting heads of state and different dignitaries on state visits to India, the President’s Home hosts a ceremonial welcome as a grand army and diplomatic custom. The ceremony takes place within the forecourt and includes a formal tri-services Guard of Honour, nationwide anthems, and introductions by the President of India and the Prime Minister. Later, the President additionally hosts a dinner reception for the visiting chief.
As a part of the protocol, full costume rehearsals are carried out a day forward of every ceremony.
