By Ravinder Singh Robin
India’s Border Security Force (BSF) today brought back the Beating Retreat ceremony at all three Punjab border points—Attari–Wagah (Amritsar), Hussainiwala–Ganda Singh Wala (Ferozepur) and Sadqi (Fazilka)—after a 12-day pause. The show had been suspended on May 8 following the Pahalgam terror attack. This evening’s parade ran in a same format, but with closed gates, no handshake between BSF and Pakistan Rangers, at 6:00 PM IST.
Public Reactions
Many netizens have said the Beating Retreat should not happen at all. They argue that lowering and hoisting the flags could be done quietly by BSF personnel alone, without the full parade. Their calls for a simple, respectful drill reflect wider concerns over security and resources.
A Brief History
- 1947: On October 11, Army officers first marked the border with drums, tents, and flagpoles.
- 1959: The ceremony began every day at Attari–Wagah.
- 1970: A second show started at Hussainiwala–Ganda Singh Wala.
- Later: A third ceremony was added at Sadqi, near Fazilka.
Traditionally timed to sunset, the event ends each day with precise drills, martial music and the lowering of flags—symbolizing both rivalry and mutual respect.
Suspensions Over Time
The parade has been halted four times in recent years:
- November 2014: After a suicide attack near Lahore.
- February 2019: Following the Pulwama terror strike and cross-border tensions.
- March 2020: Due to nationwide COVID-19 lockdowns.
- May 2025: After the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor.
Changing Gestures
In October 2010, both sides agreed to add a friendly handshake and salute and the closed gates and no hand shakes now signal a cautious tone.
Upgrading for Visitors
- January 2019: A new gallery at Attari grew seating from 3,000 to 15,000. A second gallery for 20,000 visitors was set to open in June.
- Show Times: Traditionally 5:30 PM in summer and 4:30 PM in winter, the ceremony now always begins at 6:00 PM for security.
- Online Booking: From December 5, 2022, seats can be reserved via the BSF website (attari.bsf.gov.in). A mobile app launched in January 2023 makes booking even easier.
Tallest Flag on the Border
In March 2017, India installed a 360-foot flagpole at Attari. Pakistan responded with a 400-foot pole. In October 2023, India raised a 418-foot flag, the tallest on its side.
Local Voices
Meanwhile, Amritsar Member of Parliament Gurjeet Aujla welcomed the return:
on his X account he said, “Thrilled to share that the Retreat Ceremony at Attari–Wagah Border has RESUMED from today! Today marks the trial run and from tomorrow more public will start coming. Wishing all tourists a warm welcome! May Amritsar, my beloved constituency, continue to thrive and shine on the world map! Thanks to all Forces for protecting us.”
Local Impact and Hope
The 12-day break hit taxi drivers, food vendors and souvenir sellers hard, with up to 70 percent loss of earnings. Tonight’s return brings cautious optimism. Even a smaller ceremony can help revive tourism and lift spirits in these border towns, proving that tradition endures even in tough times opine locals.