"I am all because of Pakistan."
Talha Anjum issued a public apology after a viral performance in Nepal showed him waving the Indian flag, prompting intense criticism from his Pakistani fans.
The incident occurred during a weekend concert where the Young Stunners rapper was performing ‘Kaun Talha’, a diss track widely known for its rivalry-centred narrative.
A fan in the crowd handed him an Indian flag, leading to a moment that quickly spread across social media and triggered debate among listeners on both sides of the border.
Appearing on the 365 News morning show Rise and Shine, hosted by Nadia Khan and Zohaib Hassan, Anjum addressed the controversy.
He clarified what really went down on stage.
Anjum explained that the atmosphere during the performance felt entirely different from how the viral clip appeared online once the moment was isolated and repeatedly circulated.
According to him, the individual who passed the flag did so respectfully.
He made it appear like a gesture of support from Indian fans present in the audience.
The rapper stated that while performing ‘Kaun Talha’, he instinctively accepted the flag.
This was because he interpreted the moment as an acknowledgement of engagement rather than a political symbol.
Anjum said he acted in the heat of the performance and was unaware of exactly how long he held the flag while moving around the stage.
“I did not realise for how many seconds I was standing with the flag.”
When Nadia Khan pointed out that he could have placed it aside, he admitted that the intensity of the moment kept him from making that judgment.
The backlash intensified after his initial online response, where he defended the incident.
Anjum wrote that his art belonged beyond borders, suggesting he would repeat the gesture if it caused controversy.
He said: “My heart has no place for hate. My 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 will always be borderless.”
Many felt he dismissed the emotional significance the flag carries for Pakistani audiences during times of heightened regional tension.
On the show, however, his tone shifted considerably when Zohaib Hassan asked whether his apology was unconditional and free of caveats.
Anjum responded affirmatively, saying he wanted to address the hurt felt by fans who have supported him throughout his career.
He emphasised that he owes his success to Pakistan and carries the country’s identity wherever he performs internationally.
Talha Anjum added that stages outside Pakistan always introduce him as a major figure in Pakistani rap.
He said: “If you are not there, then I am not there. I am all because of Pakistan.”
The apology brought some relief to fans who had been calling for clarity, especially after several days of conflicting narratives on social media following the viral moment.
Watch the Apology Video:
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