The President of India is the Defender of the Constitution, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the country's First Citizen. Even though India's founding fathers decided that real power for running the government must rest with the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, the Presidency is not merely a symbolic assignment as many like to believe. Over the years, the President has come to symbolize a grand continuation even as governments come and go, a symbol of India's eternity. Despite the limited powers vested in them, Presidents have found a way to make their voice heard, their influence felt across the country. Is it any wonder that political parties take great care to select an individual of their choice to reside at Rashtrapati Bhavan? India is poised to elect its next President on July 15. The political formations in the country have chosen their nominees for the post: A P J Abdul Kalam, backed by most of India's political parties, and Colonel Lakshmi Sahgal, backed by the Left. Both are eminent Indians, hailed by their fellow citizens, respected for their patriotism and services to the nation. rediff.com presents a series on the Presidency. Without fear or favour All the President's kin The legacy of President Narayanan 'Kalam always took himself very seriously' Mission Unaccomplished In the name of the President The failed crusader: T V R Shenoy on President Narayanan 'Kalam can hardly do anything for the Muslims' 'With him at the helm, there is hope that things might change' 'What use will that be to India?' 'She'd make a terrific President' The Scholar who will be President The 11th President of India: Complete Coverage