Published On

'Horse' Virat Retires: PM Modi bids warm farewell to Commandant’s Charger from President’s Bodyguard

Virat, a Hanoverian breed horse was inducted to the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) on September 12, 2000

Author :
PM Modi along with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and President of India Ramnath Kovind touching and patting a horse after the conclusion of the Republic Day celebration has gone viral on social media. As the contingent of the President’s Bodyguard astride on the horses came to receive the President, PM Modi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and the President himself were seen warmly greeting and petting the horse. This was the last Republic Day service for Virat, as the horse retires from its duty this year.

Virat receives Chief of the Army Staff Commendation for exemplary service

Virat, a Hanoverian breed horse was inducted to the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) on September 12, 2000. Virat has been the Commandant’s Charger for over a decade and was very popular among spectators and even visiting foreign dignitaries. For his exemplary services, Virat was awarded the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation on the eve of Army Day on January 15 this year. 




The President's Bodyguard (PBG) is the oldest regiment of the Indian Amry. It is the successor of the Governor General’s Bodyguards under the British Raj and it was first raised by Governor-General Warren Hastings in 1773. In 1950, with the formation of the Indian Republic, it was formally named the President’s Bodyguards.

You Might Also Like


Editors Choice