Talwiinder sparks outrage after performing with Pakistani singer Hasan Raheem

Indian singer Talwiinder has landed in the middle of an online controversy after appearing on stage with Pakistani artist Hasan Raheem during a concert in Toronto, Canada. While fans at the venue cheered for the unexpected collaboration, sections of social media strongly criticised the singer soon after videos from the event surfaced online.

The backlash intensified after Talwiinder shared clips and photographs from the concert on Instagram with the caption, “Wishes came true in Toronto.” The posts showed the singer performing alongside Raheem, hugging him on stage and dancing during the show, moments that quickly sparked debate online amid ongoing tensions surrounding collaborations between Indian and Pakistani artists.

Take a look at the post

Why are people criticising Talwiinder?

The criticism comes against the backdrop of strained India-Pakistan relations following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which reignited calls on social media for restrictions on artistic collaborations involving Pakistani talent.

Several users on X criticised Talwiinder for appearing with Hasan Raheem, with some referencing allegations that Raheem had mocked Operation Sindoor online.

One user wrote, “Shame on this joker Talwinder,” while another questioned why Indian artists continued collaborating with Pakistani musicians despite the current political climate.

Another social media user wrote that artists “have no shame”, while some accused Talwiinder of seeking attention through controversy.

Did anyone support Talwiinder online?

Despite the criticism, many social media users defended the singer and argued that music should rise above political borders.

One user described the collaboration as “two souls, two nations, one vibe”, while another wrote that “history was made” during the Toronto performance.

Several fans also praised the chemistry between the two performers on stage, particularly moments where they hugged and danced together during the concert.

What is Talwiinder known for?

Talwiinder rose to prominence through independent music releases on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. He gained widespread popularity in 2022 with tracks such as Dhundhala, Kammo Ji and Funk Song, many of which went viral on Instagram.

The singer also recently made headlines after being seen with actor Disha Patani, sparking dating rumours. However, Talwiinder later clarified that the two were still getting to know each other and did not want to rush labels around their relationship.