Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum has once again found himself at the center of controversy after an audience member threw a bottle at him during his performance at DreamFest 2025, reigniting discussions about crowd behaviour and respect for artists in Pakistan’s live music scene.
Videos circulating on social media show the rapper pausing mid-performance after the incident and addressing the crowd with visible disappointment. “I went to Dhaka — they praised me. I went to Canada — an Indian fan touched my feet. And here, this happens,” he said, before briefly walking off stage.
The moment quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism of the crowd’s conduct. Fans and fellow musicians expressed support for Talha, with many calling the repeated incidents “embarrassing” and a “disgrace to the country’s music culture.”
Not the first time
This is not the first time Talha Anjum has faced such behaviour. Similar episodes were reported at previous concerts in Karachi and Islamabad, where audience members allegedly threw bottles and other objects during his performances, forcing temporary halts to the shows.
Event organisers and music critics have raised concerns about the increasing lack of discipline and security at public concerts, especially large-scale music festivals. Several incidents involving harassment and mismanagement have also been reported over the past year, prompting artists to question safety measures at live events.
“The issue is respect, not music”
While many fans initially speculated that the incident reflected dissatisfaction with Talha’s performance, others pointed out that the problem extends beyond one artist or genre.
An editorial published in Dawn Images argued that such episodes “highlight society’s disregard — bordering dangerously on contempt — for the arts.”
Music journalist Ali Asad told The Current, “When audiences act out violently, it sends the message that artists are not valued or protected. These things don’t happen at concerts abroad — the difference is cultural respect.”
Growing concerns among artists
The repeated bottle-throwing incidents have sparked wider debate within Pakistan’s entertainment industry about concert culture and the safety of performers.
Several musicians have echoed Talha’s frustration, saying that while audiences love music, there remains a troubling lack of discipline at live events. Some have called for stricter venue security and better event management practices to ensure artists can perform without fear of harm.
Background
Talha Anjum, best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Young Stunners, has been one of the most influential voices in Pakistan’s rap scene. His work has gained international recognition, with performances in Canada, the UK, and Bangladesh drawing packed crowds.
Despite his global success, the rapper has frequently expressed disappointment over the lack of respect and professionalism he experiences during shows in Pakistan.
The bigger picture
The latest incident has once again raised questions about Pakistan’s evolving live music culture — one that’s growing in size but struggling with responsibility.
Until audiences and organisers address the behavioural issues plaguing live events, many fear more artists will think twice before performing at home.
