>Today was The 'Beating Retreat' ceremony at Delhi. A bit about it first. this event signifies the end of the republic day celebrations. The bands of the three forces join together and play for the president of india, and then the national flag is ceremonially lowered.
It all started in third standard i guess when i had my first rendezvous with the ceremony. i was a kid obviously and i asked my mom i believe "amma andha allu flag yethartuku badhula yerakaraan" , and that was when i was told what the ceremony was all about. Ok thought they explained in great detail i sure could not understand a thing, i was a kid. But what i liked to see was the way the jawans, marched, read notes and played at the same time all in sync. it was terrific, out of the world. It still is terrific. I just cant help gapping with a wide mouth at those army jawans who play . It must have taken decades of practice to come anywhere near the amount of perfection they show.Every step, every breath.
A particular favourite of mine is the hymn "Abide with me" written by monk, and one of Gandhijis favorite i was told. hearing the bands play that song of solemnity , would transfer you to a surreal world with high nationalistic feelings. Its so surprising to see that the song has no history with india, though when you hear the indian army play it, you are bound to believe that it was tailor made only for us.
The slow movind abide with me, followed by "saare jhan se aacha"(fast march) would transport you through an emotional catharsis, that words seldome define. I wish that atleast once i make it to the place in person to see this magical act of synergy.
Can someone find the link of the band playing abide with me for me? i sure wish i could link to it.