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DN Bureau

Rashtrapati Bhavan is hosting first ever wedding today; Who is the bride...

Iconic Rashtrapati Bhavan hosts maiden wedding today

New Delhi: Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, will, for the first time since it was renamed as Rashtrapati Bhavan, is hosting a wedding today on 12 February.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan was renamed on 26 January 1950, when Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India. The building was previously known as the Viceroy's House. 

Wedding At Teresa Complex

The marriage of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) couple is taking  place at the Mother Teresa Crown Complex. Poonam Gupta, a Personal Security Officer (PSO) in the CRPF, will make history by becoming the first person to exchange vows at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Gupta, who led an all-women contingent during the 74th Republic Day Parade, will marry her fiancé, Avnish Kumar, an Assistant Commandant in the CRPF, currently posted in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ceremony will be an intimate affair, attended by only close family members under stringent security protocol.

Also Read | Rashtrapati Bhavan's Amrit Udyan to open for public from this date....

First Ever Wedding

The venue has hosted numerous high-profile international dignitaries over the years. However, a wedding within its premises had never been permitted—until now. 

In an exceptional gesture, President Droupadi Murmu permitted Poonam to hold a traditional wedding at the President House, the first one in the grandiose here.

Sources said President Murmu was impressed by CRPF officer Poonam’s service in the Naxal-affected areas of Bihar, which led to her consideration.

About Rashtrapati Bhavan

Also Read | Rashtrapati Bhavan: Amrit Udyan to open for public viewing from February 2

Rashtrpati Bhavan is among the country's most significant architectural landmarks. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the sprawling estate covers 300 acres, with the main building extending over 200,000 square feet and housing 340 rooms across four floors. It is the second-largest residence of any head of state worldwide, after Italy’s Quirinal Palace.

Bride Profile

Poonam Gupta, originally from Madhya Pradesh, gained national recognition when she led the all-women contingent at the 74th Republic Day Parade. Before her current posting at Rashtrapati Bhavan, she served in a Naxal-affected region of Bihar.

Poonam Gupta: The Bride

Poonam holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, a master’s in English Literature, and a BEd from Jiwaji University, Gwalior. She joined the CRPF as an Assistant Commandant after securing the 81st rank in the UPSC CAPF examination in 2018.
 

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