“Journalism peaked here."
A video of Pakistani reporter Mehrunnisa during flood coverage has gone viral, drawing comparisons to the legendary ‘Chand Nawab’ clip.
The young reporter was covering rising waters in Shahdara, Lahore, when her calm reporting shifted to raw panic on live camera.
While speaking from a boat, Mehrunnisa confessed her distress, saying “mera dil yun yun kar raha hai” and visibly shaking with fear.
In another moment, she pleaded with the audience to pray for them.
Her terrified expressions and unique Lahori accent quickly became the focus, with many users calling her style unintentionally hilarious and meme-worthy.
The footage was first uploaded by BBC Urdu on YouTube and has since spread rapidly across multiple social media platforms.
One user wrote: “Journalism peaked here.”
Another jokingly asked: “Why did she agree to report when she was so frightened?”
Another remarked: “She is Lahori as well as brave.”
The incident has now been branded another ‘Chand Nawab’ moment by online viewers who relish such unfiltered reporting of accidents.
Pakistani writer Raza Rumi shared the clip on Facebook, where commenters described it as the “new meme in the house”.
Another person predicted that the video is likely to break popularity records given the pace at which it is being shared.
Yet, the viral frenzy also sparked criticism, with many pointing out the dangers of reckless flood reporting across Pakistan.
Some users accused reporters of putting their lives at unnecessary risk just to secure dramatic footage and social media views.
@murtazaviews Reporter Mehrunnisa working for ‘BBC Urdu News Punjab TV’ goes viral over her coverage of Punjab floods, some say her reporting is award-winning due to her unique Lahori style #floods #punjab
One angry commenter said the Pakistani reporter was urging people to stay home, but then risking her own life.
Others highlighted the danger of sudden electrocution while standing waist-deep in water, describing the reporting stunts as irresponsible and needless.
Several observers argued that aerial drone footage already provides powerful visuals, making risky stunts inside floodwaters completely unjustifiable.
A user said: “This wasn’t necessary at all. She could have reported from the sidelines or even the studio using drone footage.”
Another pointed out:
“Pakistanis will literally turn anything into a joke.”
At the same time, social media users acknowledged that Mehrunnisa’s emotional breakdown reflects the terrifying reality faced by reporters.
Unlike polished studio coverage, these moments reveal how difficult and life-threatening field reporting can become in natural disasters.
While Mehrunnisa’s video continues to circulate globally, it highlights the growing appetite for ‘going viral.’
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