KATHMANDU: Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum set social media abuzz over the weekend after he caught, waved, and draped himself in an Indian flag during a live performance in Nepal. The moment occurred while he performed his diss track ‘Kaun Talha,’ aimed at Indian rapper Naezy, when a fan tossed the tricolour onto the stage. Anjum grabbed it mid-air and wrapped it around his shoulders, creating a viral spectacle.
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The incident quickly drew both criticism and praise. Some labelled it reckless or provocative, while others celebrated it as a bold statement of art transcending borders. Anjum clarified his stance on social media, stating, “My heart has no place for hate. My art has no borders… I’ll do it again.”
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, which have restricted cultural exchanges in recent months. Platforms in India have blocked Pakistani music, and fans often rely on VPNs to access content. Against this backdrop, Anjum’s gesture was seen by many as defiance against the political climate dictating cultural engagement.
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For others, the moment reaffirmed the enduring power of art to connect people across borders. Anjum’s act sparked discussions about the role of artists in challenging divisions and reminded audiences that cultural exchange often persists despite political barriers.