Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum ignited a cross-border debate after a viral video showed him waving and wrapping himself in the Indian national flag during a live performance in Nepal. The incident, which unfolded while he was performing his popular diss track Kaun Talha, quickly escalated into a major social media flashpoint.
According to reports, the tricolour was thrown towards the stage by a member of the audience. Anjum picked it up, waved it confidently and then draped it over his shoulders, prompting loud cheers from the crowd.
However, the gesture led to immediate backlash from several Pakistani users online, who questioned his intent and criticised him for showing affection towards a rival nation. Some pointed out that Indian music platforms had earlier restricted his content, making his move even more controversial.
Responding to the criticism, Anjum posted a strong statement defending his actions. “My art has no borders. My heart has no hate. If raising an Indian flag creates controversy, I will still do it again,” he wrote. He added that he would not be influenced by “propaganda, politics or warmongering governments,” insisting that Urdu rap remained “inherently borderless.”
While the rapper faced flak in Pakistan, the reaction in India was largely positive. Many Indian users appreciated his message of unity and openness, calling the gesture a rare show of goodwill in a polarised region.
The incident continues to trend online, with opinions sharply divided but Anjum has made it clear he stands firm on his belief that music transcends borders.
