Wagah Border Post Ceremony
Wagah Border Post
The British Empire colonized and ruled India for over 300 years. In August of 1947, the British left, and the area was divided into two separate and independent nations:
Hindu majority India
Muslim majority Pakistan
The immediate aftermath led to an historic migration between the borders. The two religious communities who had co-existed for centuries were now at war with each other.
By 1948, one year after the border was formed, more than 15 million people had been uprooted. Between 1 and 2 million people were killed.
During the day the border between India and Pakistan remains open. Each night at sundown the border closes.
Lowering the flag and closing the gate is known as Beating the Retreat.
Soldiers perform marches with high kicks and swinging arms.
Plumed hats give the illusion of height.
The flags are lowered simultaneously at the same rate.