Soekarno to Prabowo: Diplomatic Heritage of RI-India at Rashtrapati Bhavan

President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto attends the diplomatic reception “At Home Reception”, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sunday (01/26) (Photo: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto Sunday (01/26) attended the diplomatic reception “At Home Reception,” held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The event is a longstanding tradition in India to honor the Chief Guest of India’s Republic Day celebrations.

Upon his arrival at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Prabowo Subianto was welcomed by President of India, Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his spouse, as well as Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.

The meeting took place in a jovial atmosphere before they proceeded together to the main venue at the Central Lawns.

Upon reaching the Central Lawns, President Prabowo Subianto and President Murmu stepped onto the main stage to listen to the national anthem of India, marking the official kick-off of the event. The two leaders then walked around the venue to greet the invited guests.

The attendees comprised various dignitaries, including officials of India, recipients of honorary medals from the President of India, and members of the diplomatic corps representing different countries.

Afterwards, President Prabowo Subianto, along with India’s President, Vice President, and Prime Minister, posed for a group photograph against the backdrop of the beautiful Central Lawns garden. This moment symbolized the strong diplomatic ties between Indonesia and India, which have been nurtured since the era of President Soekarno.

The event continued with a roll of drums and another rendition of the Indian national anthem. The Indonesian President and the Indian leaders then took another group photo, this time with the background of the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhavan, the presidential palace and a symbol of India’s grandeur and history.

As the Chief Guest of India’s Republic Day, President Prabowo Subianto’s presence evoked memories of a historic moment when Indonesia’s first President, Soekarno, who became the chief guest at India’s first Republic Day celebration in 1950.

The “At Home Reception” tradition itself was conducted as a tribute to President Soekarno, who stayed at Rashtrapati Bhavan during his visit.

President Murmu concluded the event with a farewell gesture as President Prabowo Subianto departed from North Court. His attendance at the event not only reflected the strong diplomatic relations between Indonesia and India but also reinforced the deep historical ties between the two nations, fostering a spirit of friendship and global cooperation. (BPMI Setpres/ABD) (AY/EP)