Everyday, a ceremony is conducted at the India-Pakistan border in Amritsar. Because this international border is on the Attari village (India) and Wagah (Pakistan) it is popularly known as Attari-Wagah Border. Since 1959, the lowering of flags ceremony (also known as beating ceremony, not sure why) is daily conducted by security forces of Indian (BSF) and Pakistan (Pakistan ranger) together. It is an all-together new experience. I have always been a fan of Parades since childhood (I never miss Republic day Parade), so I was really excited to visit for the Attari-Wagah Border Ceremony in Amritsar.
I reached the venue at 4:30 pm because in summer, the ceremony starts at 5:15 pm in summer while 4:15 pm in the winter season. It is advised to reach at least an hour before, to secure a good seat for yourself. When we reached, it was all jam-packed.
The ceremony starts with the march-past, citizens hoisting flags, flash mob dances followed by Parade and the flag-lowering ceremony. This is done just before the sunset. The ceremony duration is of 45 minutes.
The jawans while marching raise their legs as high as possible which really gives goosebumps. Towards the end of the ceremony, both nations open doors, and shake-hands and the door is closed. While the raising legs as high as possible is a symbol of the two countries’ rivalry, opening doors and shaking hands is a symbol of brotherhood and cooperation between the two nations.
Here are some beautiful moments from Attari-Wagah Border Ceremony in Amritsar that I captured.
…rab jaane kab guzra amritsar aur kab jaane, lahore aya… (sorry, but couldn’t resist singing this one)
The march-past begins
The ceremony to seize the day begins
Notice the flags of both of nations!
And then they fold the flag properly and keep it only to hoist it the next day! RESPECT!
Flash mob dance and celebration!
This one experience really gave me goosebumps. I am surely going to go again with my family to make them experience this one.
Watch the video where I shared the ceremony clips, handshaking of the soldiers and all the dances!
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Also read:
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Explore Amritsar Like Never Before
