Vande Mataram

I have no country to fight for; my country is the earth, and I am a citizen of the world.

Every single obstacle that we crossed was worth the moment. The whole aura of hooting, shouting, jumping and pumping, passion & patriotism running at all time high is nothing compared to what I had experienced the day I was at Wagah border, just a few meters away from Pak territory

Flag-Lowering ceremony

The rituals are performed with utmost duty.

When the sun decides to say goodbye to a peaceful day its time For the reunion, which transcends the boundaries, that man has laid. The gates are slammed shut and on both sides, a trumpet announces the end of the spectacle. Both officers return to the white border line and a final martial handshake without exchanging a single glance is watched by thousands each evening. They show their anger and their determination, but it always stays formal.

Border closing ceremony

War then, is a relation - not between man and man: but between state and state; and individuals are enemies only accidentally: not as men, nor even as citizens: but as soldiers; not as members of their country, but as its defenders

Soldiers from both countries marching in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause

India-Pak Border at Wagah

The love of one's country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border?

The border between Pakistan and India at Wagah is the scene of a pompous flag-lowering ceremony daily at sunset, complete with ornately-dressed military guards. Patriotism runs high on both sides of the border and the respective citizens join in, waving flags and cheering. Hugely entertaining and unique.

The Retreat Ceremony

Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime

Wagah about 28 kms, from Amritsar is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan.It an interesting and unique experience especially at sunset when the 'Retreat' ceremony takes place with the BSF on the Indian Side of the Border. This ceremony has taken place every day since partition in 1947 and was a truly unique experience.