Amritsar — Following a 10-day ceasefire between India and Pakistan after a 12-day-long military standoff, the Border Security Force (BSF) resumed the ceremonial Beating Retreat on a smaller scale at the Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala (Ferozepur), and Sadqi (Fazilka) border posts on Tuesday evening.
The traditional event, which symbolizes military courtesy and coordination at the international border, took place at 6 PM at all three locations. Officials confirmed that while border gates were not opened and handshakes between the forces of the two nations were avoided due to prevailing tensions, spectators were allowed to witness the ceremony from the Indian side.
The Border Area Development Front urged the public to reach the Sadqi border in Fazilka by 5:30 PM and participate in large numbers. Normally, hundreds of spectators, including international tourists, gather to witness this vibrant daily event.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony, held since 1959, is a unique and spirited military drill conducted at sunset, where national flags are ceremoniously lowered on both sides. Typically, it reflects mutual respect between the border forces and is also marked by exchange of sweets during special occasions like Diwali, Eid, Independence Day, and Republic Day.
The Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post, located 30 km from Amritsar and 22 km from Lahore, draws nearly 25,000 visitors on major days, making it one of the most viewed and emotionally stirring border ceremonies in the world.
This cautious resumption of the ceremony aims to maintain tradition while acknowledging the recent tensions that led to a temporary halt in cross-border pleasantries.
