Wagah celebrations escalate as Defense Day nears

Thousands flock to witness 'beating retreat' ceremony by Pakistan Rangers and India's BSF

LAHORE:

As Defense Day approaches, the fervor surrounding the "beating retreat" ceremony at Lahore's Wagah Border intensifies.

On Sunday, a diverse assembly of thousands, hailing from cities across Pakistan including Karachi, Hyderabad, Quetta, Peshawar, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan region, gathered at the border crossing to witness the vibrant performance jointly executed by Pakistan Rangers Punjab and India's Border Security Force (BSF).

This ceremony, also known as the lowering of the flag, is conducted just before sunset with great pomp and circumstance daily. Despite the sweltering heat of a hot and humid day in Punjab's provincial capital, individuals of all ages could be seen filling the stadium, facing the Indian amphitheater on the other side of the gate.

The Pakistani side exuded an emotionally charged atmosphere as thousands, including foreign visitors, chanted slogans of "Allahu Akbar" (God is Great) and "Pakistan Zindabad" (Long Live Pakistan).

In conversations with The Express Tribune, some spectators emphasized that watching the parade on television screens pales in comparison to witnessing it live at the border.

One spectator remarked, "The energy and enthusiasm of the Rangers' jawans (soldiers) are infectious." He added, "The Wagah border symbolizes the blood and sacrifices of our martyrs." Excited children from Hyderabad expressed their aspirations to join the Pakistan Rangers when they grow up.

Muhammad Naseer, an official from the Pakistan Rangers, highlighted that the jawans perform the ceremony with unwavering dedication, skill, and patriotism every day.

However, during national events such as Independence Day, Pakistan Day, and Defense Day, their enthusiasm and commitment reach even greater heights.

"These events also boost the morale of the public," he said.

On September 6, 1965, when the Indian Army launched a sudden attack on Lahore under the cover of darkness, the eastern borders of Pakistan were vigilantly guarded by the determined jawans of Pakistan Rangers Punjab.

They made the ultimate sacrifice while safeguarding the nation's borders. Although the Indian Army had reached the BRB Canal, the Pakistani Army thwarted their dream of capturing Lahore.