In a historic first for Punjab, celebrated music composer and singer AR Rahman delivered a live performance at the Attari Border on Jattvibeday, paying tribute to the Border Security Force (BSF) through a stirring rendition of his patriotic song “Jai Ho”.The performance, held about 30 minutes before the daily Beating Retreat ceremony at the Joint Check Post (JCP), transformed the border venue into a vibrant celebration of patriotism. Thousands of visitors from across the country joined BSF personnel to witness the special event.The Academy Award and Grammy-winning composer electrified the atmosphere with his performance, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. Rahman dedicated the event to the courage and commitment of BSF personnel guarding the nation’s borders.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, the film explores themes of love, separation and longing 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 June 12.Following Rahman’s patriotic opening, the event also featured songs from the film. Nilanjana Ghosh and Vedang Raina performed “Maskara”, while Mohit Chauhan, Pooja Tiwari and Nargis captivated the audience with “Ishq Mastana” and other musical numbers.The evening concluded on an emotional note as Rahman performed his iconic composition “Maa Tujhe Salaam”, prompting the audience to join in a powerful expression of national pride.The event also drew attention from Pakistani spectators across the international border, who watched and listened to the performances from the other side.Speaking on the occasion, director Imtiaz Ali described the concert as a unique and symbolic tribute to India’s border forces. “Rahman performed just a few steps away from the international border. This performance is an ode to the national spirit, the BSF and the Indian Army,” he said.Ali added that the story of “Main Vaapas Aaunga” is rooted in the human experiences of the 1947 Partition, a period that not only displaced millions but also left deep emotional scars. Parts of the film were shot at Attari, further strengthening its connection with the border region.While lead actors Diljit Dosanjh and Naseeruddin Shah were unable to attend due to prior commitments, the event marked a memorable cultural milestone at Attari, adding to the legacy of performances by legendary artists such as Lata Mangeshkar and Kailash Kher at the border venue.