Unfazed by the never ending hostilities between the two countries, people of India and Pakistan celebrated the historic fair of Baba Chambaliyal with religious gaiety today on the Zero-line on Indo-Pak border here.
A 40-member Pakistani delegation, led by sector Commander of Chenab Rangers Brigadier Wasim, came to the Indian side of the fence today to take part in the annual fair. They were received by the officers of the BSF and civil administration close to the shrine.
While the fair on Indian side is held for three days in the shrine complex in Chambliyal village of Samba, it is held for a week on the Pakistan side in Saida Wala village of Sialkote district.
Baba Chamliyal, after whom the village is named, lived about 321 years ago and was revered by the people because of his saintly qualities and spiritual powers.
Till 1971, Pakistanis were allowed to come to this side of the border to pay obeisance at the shrine, but after 1971 Indo-Pak war, the practice was stopped.
A popular belief, both along the Indo-Pak border, is that the soil and the water from the shrine cures skin diseases.
As a result it draws a large number of devotees from northern part of India.
Continuing with the decades-old tradition, Pakistani Rangers offered 'chadder' (holy quilt) for Shrine of Baba Chambiliyal to BSF officials, while the Indian troops handed over 'Shaker (holy soil)' and 'Sharbat (holy water)' from the shrine to the visiting team for the devotees on their side.
The team of 40 Pakistanis, including civil and security officers, people from media and judiciary, exchanged greetings and sweets with BSF personnel, led by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sector Commander Indreshwar Nagar Virender Singh.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Samba, Israr Khan and officials of civil administration were also present on the occasion. The meeting lasted for 45 minutes.
