Tensions between India and Pakistan were on full display at the Wagah-Attari border on Sunday as the traditional “beating the retreat” ceremony took place amid a surge of travelers rushing to return home before the May 1 visa expiry deadline.
With diplomatic ties deteriorating and cross-border visas canceled on both sides, hundreds of citizens have been streaming through the border checkpoint in recent days. Despite usually closing before the evening ceremony, authorities allowed crossings to continue until just moments before the gates shut.
In a sign of worsening relations, the customary handshake between troops was skipped, and the ‘Friendship Gate’ remained mostly closed during the ceremony, which was notably scaled down. Still, large crowds gathered, many expressing patriotic fervor in response to recent tensions sparked by the Pahalgam shooting in Kashmir, which killed over two dozen tourists and led to a breakdown in bilateral ties.
Over the past four days, more than 800 Indian nationals have returned from Pakistan, while around 700 Pakistanis have come back from India. On Sunday alone, 236 Pakistanis crossed into their homeland, along with 115 Indians heading in the opposite direction.
Immigration authorities conducted strict document checks, though media access to returning travelers was restricted.
The daily retreat ceremony — a symbolic military display featuring high-kicks, synchronized marches, and flag-lowering by Pakistan’s Punjab Rangers and India’s Border Security Force — continued despite the somber mood. Construction at the Pakistani viewing area didn’t deter attendees, many of whom said being present held greater significance than comfort.
Emotions ran high in the stands, with spectators loudly supporting their respective nations. Sikandar Sultan from Lahore said he felt proud to witness the unity between the soldiers and the public. Ali Asad, a repeat visitor, noted that the ceremony felt more spirited than ever due to the crowd’s energy.
Calls for peace and restraint also emerged. Asad urged India to abandon a “war mindset” and pursue dialogue instead, suggesting diplomacy as the only viable solution.
On the Indian side, young spectators like Simarjeet Singh from Amritsar spoke of the pride and passion stirred by the ceremony. “Everyone was cheering, no matter where they came from,” he said.
KT Ramesh, a tourist from Kerala, told AFP that despite the ceremony being toned down, the patriotic enthusiasm among attendees was as strong as ever. He sensed widespread anger over the Kashmir attack and echoed the sentiment that while war is undesirable, India should respond firmly.
Foreign visitors were also present on both sides, witnessing the heightened emotions and symbolic standoff unfold at one of the world’s most tense international borders.
