Art is ‘borderless’

Hasan Raheem recalls Toronto stage moment with Talwiinder

KARACHI:

Singer Hasan Raheem has said that music “is supposed to be borderless”, reflecting on his global fan following, and personal journey during an exclusive backstage interview with Haroon Rashid for the BBC Asian Network at the London leg of his ‘Dil Kay Parday’ World Tour.
The singer reflected on how his roots in Gilgit continue to shape both his identity and music. He that his upbringing naturally influences his songwriting and outlook, adding that he hopes younger people from Gilgit see his success as proof that they can pursue ambitious careers of their own in any field.
Hasan also spoke about the overwhelming response to his recent wedding celebrations, which gained global attention online for their authentic Gilgiti traditions. According to the singer, the viral coverage introduced his music to audiences who may not have previously listened to his work.
During the conversation, Hasan described himself as “a fan” while performing on stage, explaining that he values the energy exchange between himself and audiences during live shows. He added that he approaches every performance with the same effort and sincerity, regardless of the venue size.

photos: instagram

The interview further explored Hasan’s collaborative approach to music and the strong friendships he has built with fellow artists, including Talwiinder. He recalled the viral moment when Talwiinder surprised audiences during Hasan’s Toronto concert.
The singer revealed the pair have already worked on three songs together, including one he described as being “loved by millions.” Hasan said he “couldn’t stop hugging him” when Talwiinder walked on stage, while the crowd erupted with excitement at the unexpected appearance.
“It was amazing. I’ve done three songs with this guy. One of the songs is being loved by millions of people. Just to have him, I just couldn’t stop hugging him,” he said. “He is the best lad. We had the best time on stage,” he added.
When Haroon reminded Hasan that he had introduced Talwiinder as his “brother from another mother,” the singer responded warmly. “As unapologetic as he is, and the way he says that he’s a misfit, I love that fact about him and I’ve learned so much from him. As a brother also, he’s a good lad,” he said.
He explained that the surprise appearance was intentionally kept secret because they wanted audiences to experience a genuine moment of excitement. He added that energy on stage was overwhelming once the crowd realised Talwiinder’s surprise appearance.
According to the singer, fans repeatedly asked Talwiinder to perform more songs even after the planned segment had ended. “Maine kaha, ‘Bohot hai [I said that’s enough]. He’s our guest. I don’t want to annoy him. He’s already sung it twice.’ And he’s like, ‘No, let’s do it again, brother,’” he said.
The conversation also turned towards the broader significance of cross-border collaborations, with the presenter suggesting such moments foster unity. Hasan agreed, saying he does not overthink the cultural or political weight attached to such interactions. “I feel like art is supposed to be borderless,” he said.
“If I like someone’s songs, their energy, or the way they talk, I’ll just message them and say, Let’s make something together,” he said, emphasizing that such collaborations often end up benefiting both music and culture by connecting audiences from different backgrounds.
Hasan said modern artists are becoming increasingly open to working across borders and cultures. “I don’t really realise that, but you’re doing something very great for the culture as well, for the artists as well, for the music as well,” he said.
When asked whether he was willing to share the spotlight with guest performers, despite headlining his own tours, the actor replied said he grew up watching concert videos where surprise appearances would leave audiences stunned and he always wanted to recreate those same moments for his own fans.
He credited his parents for shaping his outlook on life, saying they taught him to value the moments shared with loved-ones because success and fame are temporary. “My parents always told me nothing is permanent,” he said. “The moments you have should be lived fully with your friends and loved-ones.”
Hasan’s Toronto performance triggered online debate after clips circulated widely on X and Instagram. While many fans praised the collaboration as a “beautiful musical moment”, others criticised Talwiinder for sharing the stage with a Pakistani artist amid ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan. Ending the conversation on a hopeful note, Hasan said: “At the end, music and art will win.”