Despite the long-standing hostility between India and Pakistan intensified after the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindur an unexpected gesture of harmony caught global attention during the Women’s World Cup final. While Indian and Pakistani cricketers often avoid even shaking hands on the field, one Pakistani fan broke the barrier of rivalry by singing India’s national anthem to support the Women in Blue.
As India faced South Africa in the World Cup final on Sunday, many assumed Pakistani fans would cheer for the Proteas. Instead, a viral video showed a group of Pakistani supporters, wearing their national jerseys, standing with hands on their hearts and singing Jana Gana Mana in unison. They even wished for India’s victory, writing on Instagram, “Cheer for our Women in Blue bring the cup home!”
The anthem was originally performed live by renowned singer Sunidhi Chauhan before the match. Inspired, the Pakistani fans sang along while watching the telecast. The video soon went viral, winning the hearts of Indians across social media.
Although Pakistan’s women’s team had a disappointing tournament finishing last on the points table many Pakistani cricket fans expressed joy that their neighboring country’s women’s team became world champions. Indians, too, responded with admiration to this touching show of respect and sportsmanship.
