Talha apologises over Indian flag controversy

Singer served legal notice after holding flag at Nepal concert

Rapper Talha Anjum has apologised to the nation over an incident during a recent concert in Nepal, where he was seen holding an Indian flag. He clarified that he did not wave the flag but placed it on his shoulder after it was handed to him by a fan.

"I had no intention of waving the Indian flag, but still, for causing hurt and affecting emotions, I unconditionally apologise to the nation," he said about the controversy that erupted after a video surfaced online showing him with the flag while performing his hit song 'Kaun Talha'.

Indian rappers were reportedly present at the event supporting him, and the flag was handed to him by a young fan. The act drew immediate criticism from Pakistani social media users, some of whom questioned his intentions given the strained relations between Pakistan and India. Others defended him, calling it a goodwill gesture and urging him not to apologise.

Following the incident, Anjum was served a legal notice by a Pakistani citizen, who accused him of hurting "national, patriotic, and religious sentiments of millions of Pakistani citizens." The notice demanded that the singer tender an unconditional public apology and warned that non-compliance could result in FIR filing and criminal prosecution.

Fans were divided over the incident. Some criticised Anjum for allegedly supporting India despite ongoing tensions, while others applauded his courage, saying art transcends borders. Anjum had initially defended his action on social media, stating: "My heart has no place for hate. Art has no borders. If me raising an Indian flag sparks controversy, so be it."