The iconic Beating Retreat ceremony at the Wagah-Attari border, a symbol of military tradition and national pride, has resumed for public viewing on May 20, 2025, after a 12-day suspension. The Border Security Force (BSF) had halted public entry to the ceremony at three locations – Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadki – on May 8, citing public safety concerns. This decision followed the commencement of Operation Sindoor, India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in the destruction of terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
The resumption of the ceremony has been met with enthusiasm by local residents and tourists, as the event is a major cultural attraction. Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and transportation sectors, anticipate a much-needed economic boost with the return of spectators. The Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post, located approximately 30 km from Amritsar and 22 km from Lahore, boasts a gallery with a capacity to accommodate nearly 25,000 spectators.
However, certain modifications have been implemented to reflect current security considerations. BSF troops will not engage in the customary handshake with Pakistan Rangers, and the border gates will remain closed during the flag-lowering process. These measures, according to BSF officials, are designed to maintain the ceremony's visual and emotional appeal while prioritizing the safety of participants and spectators. Inspector General Atul Fulzele emphasized that while the ceremony's essence remains unchanged, the precautionary steps are essential in the current geopolitical climate.
The Beating Retreat ceremony has been a tradition between India and Pakistan since 1959. This daily ritual involves synchronized drills, high kicks, and the ceremonial lowering of national flags by BSF troops and Pakistan Rangers. Before the suspension, the ceremony typically ended with a handshake between commanders and the opening of the border gates.
The suspension of public entry was not the first instance of disruption to the ceremony. It was previously halted following the 2014 Wagah suicide bombing and the 2019 Pulwama attack. These events highlight the delicate balance between maintaining a symbolic tradition and ensuring public safety in a region marked by geopolitical tensions.
Despite the restrictions, the resumption of the Beating Retreat ceremony signifies a return to normalcy after recent military conflict between the two countries and aims to provide a sense of normalcy. While some online voices express concern that the ceremony portrays India and Pakistan as equals, local communities and tourists largely welcome the event as a display of military precision and a significant cultural attraction. The Border Area Development Front has encouraged locals to attend the ceremony in large numbers, underscoring its importance to the community. The BSF has confirmed that the Indian flag was being lowered each day by BSF troops during the suspension, with public entry being the only aspect that was cancelled.
