Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum once again found himself in a controversial situation when a fan threw a bottle at him during a performance on stage at Dream Fest 2025. Videos of the incident went viral on social media, after which criticism of the audience’s behavior and the debate about respect for artists has resumed.
In the viral video, Talha Anjum can be seen suddenly stopping his performance, addressing the audience and saying in a regretful tone:
"I went to Dhaka and people applauded,
I went to Canada, an Indian fan touched my feet,
and here… it all happens.”
Hearing these words, silence fell in the crowd, while Talha stepped off the stage for a few moments.
This is not the first incident.
This is not the first time that Talha Anjum has faced such behavior. Previously, there have been complaints of fans throwing bottles and making noise during his concerts in Karachi and Islamabad, which led to the performance being temporarily halted several times.
Event organizers and music critics say that such incidents are on the rise due to a lack of discipline and security at public concerts. Incidents of harassment and disorder have been reported at several music festivals, raising serious questions about the safety of artists.
"The problem is not the music, it’s respect”
Some social media users interpreted the incident as a backlash against the artist, but most saw it as a reflection of Pakistani social attitudes. An analysis published in
Dawn Images said that "these incidents do not highlight the artists’ art but society’s disrespect for art.”
Music journalist Ali Asad said in an interview with The Current ,
"When fans behave like this, it sends a message that artists are not valued here. Such incidents do not happen abroad, the only difference is respect.”
Growing concern among artists
The incidents involving Talha Anjum have also disturbed other Pakistani artists. Several singers have expressed their regret over the trend, saying that if fans do not maintain discipline, it will not be possible to promote live music culture in the country.
Some artists have demanded that organizers tighten security at concerts so that artists can continue their performances in a safe environment.
Background
Talha Anjum, best known as a member of the hip-hop duo Young Stunners , is one of Pakistan’s most popular rappers. He has given successful performances in Bangladesh, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and has a fan base around the world.
However, their complaint has been that artists in Pakistan are not given the respect and protection they receive abroad.
Big question
This incident is not just abuse of a rapper, but a reflection of how the concept of respect for art and artists has weakened in our society.
If fans and organizers do not change their attitudes, more artists may be hesitant to perform within the country.
