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Explore Amritsar like never before as colours and nationalism come together on Republic Day
Republic Day falls on a Friday this year, and that leaves us with a long weekend between 26th to 28th January. What better way to spend this national holiday than to indulge in the rich history, and cultural of Amritsar, the jewel of Punjab. Home to the iconic Golden Temple, this city encapsulates the essence of Sikhism, inviting visitors from across the globe to experience its spiritual allure.
During the Republic Day celebrations, Amritsar becomes a canvas painted with different hues of nationalism and pride. The city’s fervour enhances with the elaborate ceremonies at the Wagah Border, and flag hoisting at Jallianwala Bagh followed by interesting history lessons.
And to top this up, Amritsar is home to the loveliest culinary delights, some inherent to the Punjabi culture of the North, such as fluffy parathas with dollops of Makhan, and thick lassi shakes. All this and more makes it an unparalleled destination for the Republic Day long weekend in 2024. Read below to find out more about this beautiful city, written from a patriot’s perspective.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony at the Attari-Wagah Border held on 26th January is a poignant and symbolic event that holds great significance in the context of India’s Republic Day celebrations. The border crossing, marking the boundary between India and Pakistan, witnesses a spectacular display of military precision and national pride during the ceremony.
As the sun sets on this historic day, the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel from both countries engage in a meticulously choreographed drill. The ceremony is characterised by the lowering of flags, accompanied by martial tunes and spirited gestures, creating an atmosphere charged with patriotism. The synchronized movements of the soldiers, resounding beats of the drum, and enthusiastic cheers from the spectators, all contribute to the electrifying ambience at the Attari-Wagah Border.
This ceremony has its roots in the strong history of the Indian subcontinent, particularly the partition of India in 1947. Following the partition, the Wagah Border emerged as a critical demarcation between India and the newly formed state of Pakistan. In this context, the Beating Retreat began informally in the early years of the partition and gained momentum in 1980s when India sought to showcase their military strength and national pride at the Wagah Border.
The event serves as a reminder of the shared history and ongoing efforts towards maintaining peace between the two countries. The Beating Retreat Ceremony is not merely a display of military prowess; it is a symbol of hope and harmony within neighbouring countries, which amplifies multi-fold on account of the celebrations of Republic Day.
Next, the flag hoisting ceremony at Jallianwala Bagh holds profound significance, as this historical site in Amritsar is forever etched in the memory of India’s struggle for independence. The solemn event serves as a poignant tribute to the martyrs who lost their lives during the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919.
On occasion of Republic Day, the national flag is unfurled here, to honour the sacrifice of those who fell victim to the indiscriminate firing by the British forces. The ceremony is marked by a somber atmosphere, with dignitaries, locals and visitors paying their respects. The tricolour in the national flag is symbolic of freedom and resilience, echoing the spirit of India’s journey towards becoming a sovereign republic.
Following the flag hoisting, history lessons are often organised to educate the attendees about the significance of the Jallianwalah Bagh in India’s struggle for independence. Lessons delve into the tragic events of April 13, 1919, when General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on a peaceful gathering, resulting in hundreds of causalities. These history lessons emphasize on the importance of remembering and learning from India’s past, fostering a sense of national identity and unity in all that visit. In essence truly, the Republic Day flag hoisting is a tribute that intertwines the historical struggles of the past with the celebratory spirit of India’s present as a sovereign republic.
You cannot possibly miss the gorgeous food served at various nooks and corners of Amritsar on your trip here. Whilst the list could be endless but a few recommended restaurants and cuisines by me in this delectable city are highlighted below-
Kesar Da Dhabha: Renowned for its authentic Punjabi cuisine, you must try the Amritsari Kulcha and Dal Makhani here. Established in 1916, it exudes historical yet simple charm and is a paradise for vegetarian food lovers.
Beera Chicken House: No trip to Amritsar could be complete without having those delectable non-vegetarion food items, that Punjab is so well known for. Whilst everything on the menu is lip-smacking, I personally recommend the succulent tandoori chicken and creamy butter chicken here.
Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner: A go-to place for Amritsari fish and chicken delicacies, this take-away serves the crispiest fish fry and tandoori chicken.
Kulcha Land: Punjab is also known as the land of Kulchas, and this place specialises in a variety of stuffed kulchas. It offers both veg and nonveg innovative kulcha fillings to suit different taste pallets.
Gian Chand Lassi Wale: A lassi haven for lovers, this place is offering a variety of flavours, including the famous rose lassi. It is a perfect refreshing break during your culinary exploration in Amritsar.
Brother’s Dhabha: Known for its diverse menu with a focus on local flavours, this restaurant offers a cosy ambience with outdoor seating as well.
In the heart of Amritsar, amidst the aromatic lanes adorned with culinary treasures, one cannot escape the palpable essence of patriotism that runs through the veins of this vibrant city! As the tricolour flutters in the crisp of the Republic Day air, each bite at the Kesar da Dhabha and every sizzle at Beera Chicken House becomes more than a gastronomic experience- they also become a celebration of the indomitable spirit that defines the soul of India.
Walking through the lanes of Amritsar, one feels an unspoken connection to the struggles and victories that have shaped this country. The Republic Day experience is not confined to rituals; it encompasses the cultural and historical tapestry that threads through every corner. From the quite corridors of the Partition Museum to the spirited atmosphere of flag hoisting, Amritsar is the perfect testament to the enduring spirit of patriotism. The celebration here is a reminder of collective history and a shared identity, the unwavering pride that defines the essence of being an Indian.
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