Flag-waving act puts Talha Anjum at centre of online storm

Mixed reactions emerge from both sides after the rapper refuses to apologise

Talha Anjum has ignited widespread online controversy after raising the Indian flag during a concert in Nepal, triggering intense debate across both countries. The rapper, however, remained unapologetic in the face of criticism, saying his heart has no place for hate.

"Art has no borders. If me raising an Indian flag sparks controversy, so be it. I'll do it again. Will never care about the media, the war-mongering governments and their propagandas. Urdu rap is and always will be borderless," he wrote on social media.

Anjum has been touring in Kathmandu, and videos from the event began circulating over the weekend, drawing sharply split reactions on both sides of the border. Some criticised him for supporting India despite its hostility towards Pakistan.

"India is doing everything it can to spread terrorism in Pakistan," wrote one user on X. "They even killed innocent Pakistanis, while Talha Anjum is busy lifting and wearing an Indian flag. India even banned his YouTube. What else can you expect from an Imran Khan supporter?"

Another user highlighted how little support he receives from India. "Talha Anjum waved the Indian flag at a concert in Nepal, despite the fact that his Spotify and probably his YouTube channel as well are blocked in India. What a pathetic nation we are - no self-respect, no shame, no spine."

One person simply felt he lacked empathy. "Talha Anjum, can we discuss this after your home and town get bombed by Indians like mine did?" they wrote.

Others, however, praised his bold gesture. "What Talha Anjum has done is commendable," one fan wrote. "Even if he did it for views, he knows Pakistanis will hate him for it, yet he still did this."

Another insisted that waving a flag should not be exaggerated. "No problem, buddy," the user wrote. "Do what you want. Raising any country's flag won't make you anti-Pakistan. We will always support you."

Amid the polarising reactions, the episode kept social media in constant debate. As one user remarked, "Talha Anjum is getting dragged from left, right and centre, and this is why I pay my internet bills."

In December last year, the rapper's planned debut in India - with stops in Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi - was cancelled due to organisational and financial disputes.