In a groundbreaking event, CRPF officer Poonam Gupta, who made history by leading the CRPF’s all-women contingent during the 74th Republic Day Parade, is set to marry her fellow CRPF officer, Avnish Kumar, inside the iconic residence of the President of India.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan, a majestic symbol of India’s democracy and governance, is about to witness a historic moment on February 12, as it hosts its very first wedding.
This remarkable ceremony marks an unprecedented occasion for the estate, which has long been a beacon of political and cultural significance. For the first time ever, the stately halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan will host a wedding, making it a moment that will be etched in history.
A Historic Decision by President Droupadi Murmu
The rare and momentous decision to host the wedding at the Rashtrapati Bhavan was personally approved by India’s President, Droupadi Murmu. Known for her strong leadership and commitment to recognizing exemplary service, President Murmu took a personal interest in this unique event.
Poonam Gupta, who currently serves as a Personal Security Officer (PSO) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, is highly regarded for her discipline, leadership, and dedication to her duties. Her incredible journey and achievements within the CRPF have made her a figure of admiration, not only within the force but also within the broader community.
The decision to host the wedding within Rashtrapati Bhavan’s premises is a reflection of the respect that the President has for Poonam Gupta’s service. She has broken barriers as the first woman to lead the CRPF’s all-women contingent during the Republic Day Parade—a role of great honor and significance.
Her outstanding leadership during this historic parade did not go unnoticed, and it contributed to her being chosen to receive this unique opportunity to marry within the presidential residence.
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In what is a rare and special privilege, President Murmu also suggested the Mother Teresa Crown Complex as the location for the ceremony.
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This location, which is nestled within the vast Rashtrapati Bhavan estate, will provide an intimate setting for the couple’s private celebration. It speaks volumes about the high regard in which Poonam Gupta is held by the President and her personal involvement in making this occasion memorable for the couple.
A Private Yet Prestigious Ceremony
The wedding will remain a strictly private affair, with only close family members and friends invited to witness the historic occasion. Despite the grandeur of the venue, the couple has opted for a ceremony that maintains a level of simplicity and dignity fitting for such an esteemed location.
In keeping with the high standards of Rashtrapati Bhavan, all guests attending the wedding will undergo a rigorous security screening process, ensuring that the event takes place in the most secure and controlled environment.
While it will undoubtedly be a momentous event for those involved, the wedding is expected to be a quiet, personal celebration. It will be an affair without the usual fanfare of public functions that Rashtrapati Bhavan typically hosts.
The wedding’s minimalistic approach reflects the private nature of the couple’s relationship, while also respecting the presidential residence’s dignified and solemn atmosphere.
This private but prestigious ceremony is a testament to the couple’s commitment to keeping their personal lives private, despite the fact that their wedding is taking place in one of the most iconic buildings in India.
Rashtrapati Bhavan, as the official residence of the President, has been the backdrop to many important events in India’s history, from state functions to the hosting of world leaders. However, this wedding will mark the first time that such a significant and deeply personal event takes place in its grand halls, making it all the more special.
The Architectural Marvel of Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, more than just a residence, stands as an architectural masterpiece and a historical landmark in India. Constructed during the British colonial era, the building was initially designed to serve as the residence for the British Viceroy of India.
Following India’s independence in 1947, it became the official residence of the President of India. Spanning an impressive 200,000 square feet, the estate consists of four floors, 340 rooms, and various wings that house grand halls, corridors, anterooms, and ceremonial spaces.
The architectural design of Rashtrapati Bhavan is a seamless blend of Indian and European styles, showcasing the country’s colonial past while embracing its modern democratic identity.
The sprawling estate is constructed using 700 million bricks and 3 million cubic feet of stone, symbolizing the monumental effort put into its design and construction.
As one of the largest residences of any head of state globally, Rashtrapati Bhavan’s sheer scale is awe-inspiring. Its grandeur, combined with its historical significance, makes it one of the most important and iconic buildings in India.
The building has also served as the backdrop for countless state functions, formal events, and diplomatic meetings, reinforcing its status as the center of India’s democratic power.
For this wedding, the Mother Teresa Crown Complex, a section of the estate known for its serene beauty, will serve as the venue. This part of the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex is a quieter, more intimate space, perfect for a ceremony that celebrates personal love and commitment.
Though the complex is smaller in comparison to other grand spaces within Rashtrapati Bhavan, its beauty and sense of tranquility make it an ideal location for the couple’s special day.
In addition to its grand architecture, Rashtrapati Bhavan also boasts extensive gardens, known as the Mughal Gardens, which add to the estate’s allure.
These gardens are often open to the public during specific times of the year, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to admire the lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and stunning fountains. The gardens serve as a reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage and the country’s ability to blend history with contemporary life.
A Special Honour for a Dedicated Officer
The decision to allow a wedding to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a rare honor, reserved only for individuals who have shown exceptional service to the nation. Poonam Gupta’s dedication and leadership within the CRPF have made her a national hero.
Her role in leading the all-women contingent during the Republic Day Parade was not just a personal achievement but a milestone for gender equality within India’s security forces.
Poonam Gupta’s achievement has become a source of inspiration for countless young women across the country, showing that women can excel in even the most challenging and high-pressure environments.
Poonam Gupta’s fiancé, Avnish Kumar, is also a CRPF officer, currently serving in Jammu and Kashmir. The couple’s shared commitment to national service further strengthens the significance of their wedding taking place at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Both officers have dedicated their careers to safeguarding the nation, making their union not just a personal celebration, but also a testament to the values of duty, discipline, and commitment to the service of India.
In a world where national heroes often face public scrutiny and media attention, the couple has managed to maintain a level of privacy and respect for their personal lives. Their wedding, held in the heart of India’s political power center, will undoubtedly attract attention, but the couple has made it clear that they wish to keep their celebration private and meaningful.
The decision to marry within Rashtrapati Bhavan speaks to the esteem in which they are held by India’s leadership, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter in both their personal and professional lives.
The marriage of Poonam Gupta and Avnish Kumar inside Rashtrapati Bhavan is a historic event that brings together personal love and national pride in a way that is unprecedented in India’s history.
This landmark ceremony, taking place in the heart of the Indian presidency, is a reminder of the significant achievements of India’s security forces, and it showcases the deep respect and admiration that the President and the nation have for these dedicated officers.
As Rashtrapati Bhavan opens its doors to welcome this remarkable couple, the wedding will stand as a testament to the values of discipline, service, and commitment that define both the couple and the institution they serve.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏