New Delhi: Music composer and singer AR Rahman became the first musician to perform at the Attari Border on 7 June.
The performance, held about 30 minutes before the daily Beating Retreat ceremony at the Joint Check Post (JCP), was part of a special tribute honouring personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF).
The programme was organised with the support of the BSF by the production team of the upcoming film ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga.’ Directed by Imtiaz Ali, this love story is set against the backdrop of Partition. The movie stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari and Vedang Raina, with music composed by Rahman and lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil. It is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on 12 June.
Following Rahman’s patriotic opening, the event also featured songs from the film. Nilanjana Ghosh and Raina performed Maskara, while Mohit Chauhan, Pooja Tiwari and Nargis sang Ishq Mastana. In one of the videos going viral, Raina is seen singing as Imtiaz Ali captures him on his phone.
The evening concluded in a classic Rahman style as he performed his iconic composition Maa Tujhe Salaam.
The event also drew attention from Pakistani spectators on the other side of the international border.
One fan on Ali’s Instagram asked, “Sir, Lahore tak awaaz aegi?” Can people in Lahore hear Rahman?
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Message of love
Speaking on the occasion, director Imtiaz Ali described the concert as a unique and symbolic tribute to India’s border forces. “This is such a unique event. AR Rahman performing at the Attari Gate at the JCP Stadium. This performance is an ode to the national spirit, to our bravehearts on the border, the BSF and the Indian Army, and to the spirit of solidarity and love that binds us all,” he said.
Ali added that the story of Main Vaapas Aaunga is one of the 1947 Partition, a period that left deep emotional scars.
“Not only homes and lives were lost, but hearts were broken as well. We bring a message of love because, ultimately, only love sustains us,” he added.
Main Vaapas Aaunga is produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment, along with Mohit Choudhary and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films.