Wagah: A Tapestry of Unity and Divisive Histories

Like every year this year too, we embarked on our annual vacation,  opting for the winter season when the climate is most enjoyable. Our destination of choice was Amritsar, and even though winter had yet to reach its peak, it was the pinnacle for us. Prepared with warm clothing, we seized the opportunity to capture memorable moments in jackets, mufflers, caps, and goggles. Our itinerary included visits to the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border, with a side of indulgence in street food, unburdened by concerns about calories or sugar.

This article will delve into our experience at the Wagah Border, particularly the captivating beating retreat ceremony we had previously seen on YouTube and tourism sites. My desire was to witness the march of well-dressed and disciplined soldiers from both sides, a spectacle where their leg lifts almost defy normalcy, showcasing remarkable agility and aggression. Securing the best seat for this event required arriving a couple of hours early. Despite our early arrival, we lacked the privilege of proximity to the gate due to the absence of a letter from defense personnel. Nonetheless, we enjoyed a clear view of the Indian soldiers' march while catching only a faint glimpse of our neighbour's. 

Arriving early spared us the need to be time-conscious, as the Border Security Force (BSF) soldiers engaged us with patriotic songs. The audience was invited to volunteer in spontaneous dances to the music and encouraged to shout in a manner that expressed solidarity against the people from Pakistan. While the soldiers did not require our motivation to give their best, our support undoubtedly enhanced their sense of pride in fulfilling their duty.

As I sat down and observed the imposing gate and the people on the other side, thoughts reminiscent of Arjuna's contemplation during the Kurukshetra war crossed my mind. The realization struck that those on the other side were also our people. I pondered how rulers exploited the political ambitions of a few politicians, resulting in the division of the country. This division aimed to prevent us from challenging the mighty Western nations. The installation of gates and barbed wires forced close friends to migrate based on religion. Despite enduring the toughest times during migration, individuals prayed not only for themselves but also that their enemies would be spared. Despite the hardships, there remained a glimmer of hope for eventual reunification.

Over the years, once-undivided nations evolved into hostile entities, with mutual distrust eroding the bonds of trust. Those born pre-independence have memories of friendships that transcended borders, yet their next generation views the neighboring nation as an adversary.

Post partition, based on religion, both countries grapple with internal problems that might have persisted even if we had remained united. The development witnessed in India could have spread to Pakistan, creating the strongest bloc in Asia capable of negotiating better with the West and countering China's influence.

Setting aside contemplations of unity's strength, the prevailing realization is that those on the other side are fundamentally like us. The political ambitions of a few individuals overpowered the emotions of common people, illustrating how power-hungry individuals manipulate public sentiment to impose their own agendas. Whether we like it or not, this is the reality of how the world operates.