C Rajagopalachari Statue to Replace Edwin Lutyens at Rashtrapati Bhavan

In a monumental step towards shedding colonial-era symbols, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a historic change at the heart of India's democracy. The statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens, which has stood in the central courtyard of Rashtrapati Bhavan for decades, will officially be replaced by a statue of C. Rajagopalachari.

The announcement was made during the 131st episode of the Prime Minister’s monthly radio broadcast, Mann Ki Baat, sparking widespread interest and pride across the nation.

Farewell to Colonial Symbols

For years, the legacy of Sir Edwin Lutyens—the man who designed the Rashtrapati Bhavan and much of New Delhi—has been physically cemented within the presidential estate. However, PM Modi emphasized that it is time for the country to move past the remnants of colonial rule and honor its own indigenous heroes.

During his address, the Prime Minister expressed regret that even after independence, statues of British administrators were allowed to remain in Rashtrapati Bhavan, while India’s greatest freedom fighters were denied their rightful space.

"Today, the country is leaving behind the symbols of slavery and has begun to value symbols related to Indian culture," PM Modi stated, linking the move to his 'Panch-Pran' vision to free the nation from a colonial mindset.

Grand 'Rajaji Utsav'

To celebrate this massive cultural shift, the central government is pulling out all the stops at the presidential estate.

• The Unveiling: The new statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari will be unveiled on February 23, 2026, during a specially organized event called the 'Rajaji Utsav'.
• The Exhibition: Following the unveiling ceremony, Rashtrapati Bhavan will host an exclusive public exhibition detailing the life, philosophy, and contributions of the legendary leader from February 24 to March 1, 2026.

Who Was C. Rajagopalachari?

For the younger generation catching up on history, C. Rajagopalachari—affectionately known as "Rajaji"—was a towering figure in India’s independence movement. Most notably, he holds the historic distinction of being the first and only Indian-born Governor-General of independent India.

PM Modi praised his legacy, noting that Rajagopalachari viewed power not as a position of authority, but as a medium for public service. His self-restraint and fiercely independent thinking continue to inspire millions today.

A New Era of Identity

As we continue to track the most important national updates here at IN4 GRAMS, this development stands out as a defining moment in India's ongoing effort to reclaim its heritage. Replacing the very architect of the building with an Indian independence icon is a powerful geopolitical and cultural statement.

From renaming Rajpath to 'Kartavya Path' to this latest statue replacement, the landscape of New Delhi is rapidly transforming to reflect a purely Indian identity.