India with love. Last part. G.O.L.D.E.N T.E.M.P.L.E
- Yoga With Camelia
- Feb 6, 2012
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 23
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a sacred Sikh shrine located in Amritsar, India. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of equality, unity, and brotherhood. The temple's stunning architecture, covered with gold leaf attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year. On the other hand, the Pakistani border, particularly the Wagah-Attari border, is a significant crossing point between India and Pakistan. It is famous for the daily flag-lowering ceremony known as the Wagah Border Ceremony.
The contrast between the peaceful, spiritual Golden Temple and the lively, intense atmosphere of the Pakistani border highlights the history and relationship between India and Pakistan. Despite the political tensions, these two sites stand as reminders of the shared cultural roots and the need for peace and understanding in the region.
Darbar Sahib, also called the Golden Temple, is among the ancient religious locations for Indian Sikhs.
The roof of the temple, crafted from pure gold, stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the architectural marvel. The sun's rays are reflected by its facade, creating a radiant glow that captivates everyone who sees it.
Commissioned during the distinguished rule of Maharaja Singh, the 19th-century ruler of Punjab, the temple represents the region's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.
Its construction was a labor of love, a symbol of devotion to both faith and craftsmanship.
The golden roof, a symbol of prosperity and divine connection, has proven the test of time, remaining of a spiritual significance and architectural excellence.
Upon my arrival at the Golden Temple in the afternoon, I joined other visitors for lunch. I remained at the temple until nightfall to witness its nighttime appearance.
The lake around the temple was artificially made by mankind; It is known as Amrit Sarovar, the pool of holy nectar. The temple is visited by thousands of people every year to pray among other gurus.
Meals are served once a day for all the visitors; all the food served are donations from faithful practitioners. The temple has 4 entrances from all directions, so people feel that they belong to the walk of life, they can feel welcome. More then 50,000 people are served daily!
What an experience! And this is how we made it possible to feed so many people in a day, astonishing and yet an every day reality.
As I proceeded on my way towards the border of India and Pakistan, a local waiter informed me about the Wagah border flag ceremony. This ceremony occurs daily at sunset at the Wagah border. Being just a few kilometers away, I began my search for a tuk-tuk driver who could take me there.
As the sun sets, the gates at the border are opened and the parade between the soldiers of each side starts. The Pakistan and Indian soldiers walking military march. Follows lowering down goths flags simultaneously. Most international travellers are regrouped in the Indian side of the tribunes. This is spectacular and bring thousands of visitors.
The Wagah Border ceremony
I was astonished by the vast number of spectators and participants assembling for this extraordinary event.The ceremony begins with the arrival of soldiers from both the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) and the Pakistan Rangers.
These soldiers, dressed in their respective uniforms, march with precision and discipline, showcasing their training and commitment to their country.
The precision and coordination of the soldiers are a testament to their dedication and the rigorous training they undergo.
As the ceremony unfolds, the crowd becomes increasingly animated, with chants, cheers, and patriotic songs echoing across the border.
The event is not just a display of military strength; it also serves as a celebration of the cultural heritage of both nations.
One of the most memorable moments of the Wagah Border ceremony for me was the lowering of the flags, performed with great ceremony and respect.
The flags of both India and Pakistan are lowered simultaneously, symbolizing the end of the day and the closing of the border for the night.
This moment was marked by a sense of unity and energy between the two nations.
The ceremony concluded with a final salute from the soldiers, who stand tall and proud.
It has become a symbol of peace and a reminder of the importance of dialogue and understanding between nations. Overall, the Wagah Border ceremony is more than just a military display; it is a profound expression of national identity, a celebration of cultural heritage, and a hopeful reminder of the potential for peace and cooperation between India and Pakistan.
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