For the last few decades, the American borders have always been a heavily controversial topic. When the word "border" is brought up in American conversations, there is always an opinion to greet it. It's an ongoing problem that may never be resolved and it is one area that we as America have very little pride in. There is also a border in Asia that is heavily controversial. It lies between the countries of India and Pakistan. It is known as the Wagah Border and there is only one legal area that allows border crossing. These two countries have been at odds with one another ever since their borders were first created in 1947. The border crossing is heavily guarded on both sides, where tensions remain high, and as night approaches, crowds from both sides of the country visit this area. They don't come, however, for conflict, but to watch the famous ceremonial dance-off that happens between the borders guards as they exchange soldiers for the night shift. This Famous Ceremonial exchange happens on a daily basis since it first began in 1959.
The ceremony begins with loud war shouts that come from both sides by the leaders of the guard exchange. The crowds are excited and energetic. They are met with applause and chants by the crowds supporting their countries respectively. It resembles the kinds of crowds you would see at a sports event. People have their faces painted and wave their country's flags. Men with amazing beards and impressive mustaches march towards the two elegantly colored gates that control the entering and exiting between the borders. They kick their feet above their heads and tap their feet in a collective movement. You can find a video of the ceremony here.
The dance march lasts roughly 20 minutes. Although I have not had the opportunity to see this ceremony first hand, just by watching the video on YouTube I could see how serious and competitive both sides took this event. It was depicted through the guards' intense facial expressions and in the fans' voices as they cheered. My favorite part of the ceremony happens near the end when the flags are lowered. Two guards kick their feet and march towards the middle of the entrance. They salute and then cross their respective borders with one hand to shake the other's hand. In that brief second, you see unity between the two disputing countries through a simple handshake.
In my opinion, this ceremony is one of the most beautiful things that these two countries get to share with one another. For a brief amount of time, this border is not seen as a place of separation and resentment. Instead, it is a place of joy and community. Could you imagine if America and Mexico had something like this?
