Attari-Wagah is not just a geographical line; it connects hearts and souls.

Before 1947, India and Pakistan were a single nation. The end of British colonial rule split British India into two independent dominions #India and #Pakistan. Both nations share centuries of intertwined history, language (such as Hindi / Urdu and Punjabi roots), classical music, architecture, and culinary traditions. Dishes like of Mughlai cuisine and other street foods are still popular in both the nation. This partition triggered massive migration and severe communal violence. In today's time even though both countries stand against each other, they fought numerous battles together as one united force before the partition. Now as we are a seperate nation, there is always a unique curiosity and excitement within us to visit the place, without going through government formalities. The best answer to that is to get a feel through the border areas. I was too excited too when we did plan to visit the Attari - Wagah Border during the trip to Amritsar. There was a different feeling of patriotism, friendship and excitement for making it too close to the neighbouring country.

This post was overdue to post on #hive since long. My phone gallery was full of many images to share the walk that took us near to the border areas. As I am making space in my mobile by deleting old photographs, I found an opportunity to share the walk towards the bordering nation i.e "Pakistan". People do get excited to visit the Attari-Wagah border areas merely because they offer a unique mix of patriotism, dramatic geopolitical contrast, military heritage, and untouched natural landscapes. I was also excited for attending the high octane Beating Retreat ceremony - a high energy military spectacle from both side.

We left our hotel around 2 PM, the border areas is half an hour drive from main city. We wanted to reach the place as early as possible to avoid last minute rush. People use to visit in large number to attend the military spectacle. The ceremony starts around 4 PM (before the sunset) so, we wanted to grab the best seats to get proper view of the program. Being a border area, make sure to follow all the rules and instruction. the areas always heavenly guarded by the army personal. I can see the Indian flag flying from a distance, yet we were mote focus on our driving to avoid any nuisance. although it was an empty road, the presence of military personal does make us to drive properly without creating any mess. actually w do not wanted to miss on the beating retreat ceremony.

We parked our vehicle in the parking and follow the instruction provided by the army man. There were many personala presents on the roadside to direct us towards the Shahi-Qila as they refers to the areas where the ceremony helds every day. On way towards the ara, I found local vendors selling many indian merchandise there also some refreshment option on the roads. snacks drinks everything is available.

By the time we reached, there was already lot of rush, huge crowd can be see trying to make their way towards the Shahi-Qila. There was a security check to pass on and every visitors were following a queue to enter.

Getting pass the security, we can see a huge building on the right side. Seeing the structure I too get excited,as it was matter of moment that I will near to the border and feel the warmth the neighbouring nation. suddenly there was a chaos,and few of the visitors start rushing towards the entry gate. Everyone wanted to capture the best seat in the hall. Anyway I was excited to see the Pakistan flag. It was visible now flying up on the sky. A contrasting view of two nation flag separated by a thin layer of air.

I was not in a mod to rush through the border vibes. I wanted to live the moment and capture the atmosphere of the space. I have my own designated seat , thanks to VIP entry pass. I started capturing the things that were visible in there. I knew the border is not much of distance. There were many people like me, who were like to explore each and everything visible in the space till the main entry.

Soon after covering the areas and walking towards the main entry we reached the spot for entry. It was final check point before we enter into one of the greatest arena I had ever been too.

It was a merely a big structure, we pass through the door and entered into the areas designated for the beating retreat ceremony. It was a huge compound, with lots of chairs and empty staircase to seat. the entire space was divide by an iron gate, which is actually the border areas that separate the two nation. The portrait picture of Mahatma Gandhi on our side and Mohammad Ali Jinnah on the other are enough to conclude that we are two different nation. Noone is allowed to get near to the gate, but still the patriotic vibes is in full swing on both side.

Before the main parade begins, Women /ladies on the Indian side were invited to dance and sing to popular patriotic tracks right near the entry plaza, building a communal and festive mood. After a while the ceremony begins on both side. Soldiers from India's Border Security Force and the Pakistan Rangers perform aggressive, high stepping marches, synchronized leg raises, and sharp salutes with intense theatrical flair. Keeping all the audience on both side entertained and thrilled. After the ceremony concludes, the high energy, stadium like atmosphere quickly shifts as crowds disperse and security tightens. Visitors wanted to go early before its get too dark. But I have different plan. I find it an opportunity to click with the army Personals.

The scene at the other side was not different. People were doing similar things as we indians were doing, some living fast while some clicking themselves with the rangers. afterall, we do have many similar traits alike between us. It was a time to say goodbye to our neighbouring nation. the flags on both sides still flying up and high.

After witnessing the grand ceremony, I left the place taking along some adrenaline experience and moments of being close to our neighbour.

In good faith - Peace!!