The relationship between India and Pakistan has always been complex and fluctuating. Since gaining independence in 1947, the two countries have fought several wars with each other. The issue of Kashmir has remained the most significant and longstanding point of conflict between them. Although efforts have been made periodically to restore negotiations and diplomatic ties, an atmosphere of distrust still prevails. There is a desire among the peoples of both countries for friendship and cultural connections. Cricket and other sports often bring the two nations temporarily closer. The role of the media is sometimes to escalate tensions and at other times to highlight the voice of peace. Border skirmishes and incidents of terrorism frequently obstruct relations. The international community has consistently urged both countries to resolve their disputes through peaceful negotiations. If both nations promote mutual respect and tolerance, lasting peace can be established in South Asia.
The roots of the people-to-people relations between Pakistan and India are deeply embedded in centuries-old civilizational and cultural heritage. The shared history of the subcontinent has connected the people of both countries through language, food, music, literature, and customs. Before the creation of Pakistan, the two nations lived together for centuries, respecting each other's beliefs and values. After partition, although political tensions divided them, public connections remained intact. Renowned poets, writers, artists, and singers are equally popular on both sides. Many families were separated after partition, but their hearts remain connected. Despite visa restrictions and government barriers, people continue to find different platforms for interaction. Social media and online forums have given new life to public connections in recent years. Religious pilgrimages also help promote these relations. If these public connections are encouraged, they can play a significant role in fostering peace and harmony at the governmental level.
The history of trade between Pakistan and India dates back to the shared economic activities before the creation of Pakistan. Before partition, the two regions were part of the same trading system where goods moved freely. After independence, trade between the two countries continued in the initial years and Pakistan sourced a major portion of its imports from India. However, due to political tensions and wars, trade relations were severed or limited many times. In the 1970s, trade was completely halted, but later it was partially resumed through some land and air routes. In 1996, India granted Pakistan "Most Favoured Nation" (MFN) status, but Pakistan did not formally respond to it. Traders and business circles in both countries have repeatedly supported promoting bilateral trade. The Wagah border and other land routes have remained limited but significant sources of trade. Informal trade also plays a major role in both countries, continuing despite various restrictions. If political trust is restored, bilateral trade could become a key driver of economic growth in South Asia.
The history of wars between Pakistan and India began immediately after the creation of the two countries. The first war took place in 1947-48 over the Kashmir issue, which ended in a ceasefire with the intervention of the United Nations. In 1965, another major war broke out between the two nations, again over the Kashmir dispute, and it ended with the Tashkent Agreement. The third war in 1971 resulted in the separation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh, which was a major tragedy for Pakistan. In 1999, the Kargil conflict took place, which was limited in scope but held severe risks as both nations had become nuclear powers. Despite these wars, several times both countries stepped back from the brink of full-scale conflict, notably after the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the tensions following the 2019 Pulwama incident.
These wars have heavily impacted both nation's resources, resulting in significant loss of life. The aftermath of these conflicts saw an enormous increase in defense spending, while education, health, and developmental projects were left behind. The United Nations and the international community have always urged both countries to resolve their issues peacefully. If lessons are learned from the past, dialogue, rather than war, would be a better path for the future.
The history of border skirmishes between Pakistan and India reflects an ongoing state of tension in addition to wars. There have been frequent incidents of firing and shelling along the Line of Control (LOC) and the international border. In 2003, both countries signed a ceasefire agreement, which brought some temporary peace. However, violations of this agreement have occurred intermittently, especially in sensitive areas of Kashmir. These skirmishes have resulted in casualties not only among military personnel but also among civilians on both sides. After the Uri attack in 2016, India claimed "surgical strikes", which significantly escalated border tensions. The 2019 Pulwama attack and the subsequent Balakot airstrike further heightened tensions along the borders. Both nations often accuse each other of violating the ceasefire, which affects peace efforts. The greatest suffering from these skirmishes has been borne by the residents of border areas, who are forced to relocate. If border tensions are resolved and permanent peace is established, trust between the two nations can be restored.
The cultural history of Pakistan and India holds a significant place in the realms of arts, music, and cinema. Before partition, artists, musicians, and writers from both countries lived in the same region, and their creations had a mutual influence. After 1947, the influence of one country's music and arts on the other continued. Pakistani ghazals, qawwalis, and classical music have been influenced by Indian music, and the Indian film industry, Bollywood, provided a significant platform for Pakistani actors and singers. Singers like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammad Rafi are equally popular in both countries. In the 1950s, Pakistan's film industry, "Lollywood", was at its peak, while India's Bollywood had already established its global identity. Both nations share a history of actors and directors, such as Nargis, Daler Mehndi, and Bushra Ansari. Pakistani films and dramas have gained popularity in India, such as "Humsafar" and "Zindagi Gulzar Hai". Similarly, Indian films have found a significant audience in Pakistan, especially from the 1960s to the present. The exchange of arts between the two countries has proven to be a positive step despite the borders, and if these connections are further strengthened, new energy and spirit can be infused into the arts of both nations.
