The announcement of an India tour by popular Pakistani hip-hop duo Young Stunners has ignited a firestorm of controversy. The duo, formed in Karachi in 2012 by Talha Anjum and Talhah Yunus, was set to perform in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai from December 13 to December 25. The events were officially hosted by SkillBox, which released the tour dates but has since delisted the event following public outcry.
Tour Background
The official website had announced: “Young Stunners India Tour 13th December 2024 – 25th December 2024. Join us for an electrifying experience as the dynamic duo, Young Stunners, embark on their much-anticipated India tour. Spanning three major cities, this tour promises to be a musical extravaganza featuring the raw and powerful Urdu rap that has taken the world by storm.”
Young Stunners, known for their thought-provoking lyrics and captivating performances, have carved a niche in the music industry with their unique style and storytelling. Their hits include “Burger-e-Karachi,” “Maila Majnu,” and “Laam se Chaura.”
Event Schedule
The pair were scheduled to kick off their tour in Mumbai on December 13, followed by a performance in Bengaluru on December 21, and concluding in Delhi on December 25. SkillBox had opened pre-registration for the event, offering priority access to ticket sales once available.
Social Media Backlash
However, the tour announcement was met with severe backlash on social media. Users highlighted past tweets by Talha Anjum, where he mocked Indian Air Force pilot Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, expressed anti-India sentiments, criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and supported Kashmir’s secession from India.
Making a mockery of an Indian patriotic song, “Aao bachcho tumhe dikhaye jhanki Hindustan ki,” Talhah Yunus wrote, “Aao bachcho ser karaun main tumko Pakistan ki, Jiski khatir lalalalala Hindustan ki (Come children, let me take you on a tour of Pakistan for whose sake India)” abusing the country indirectly.
One user remarked, “Who is Talha? The one who wrote against (India’s stand in) Kashmir. The one who spewed venom against PM Modi. The one who made fun of Abhinandan. Now Indians will purchase his show’s tickets. It’s a shame that he is allowed to perform in the country.”
The two Pakistani rappers’ inflammatory remarks about India have resurfaced, leading to widespread calls on social media for the cancellation of their scheduled performances in India. Critics are outraged that artists known for their derogatory comments and hostility toward India are seeking to perform and profit in the country.
Public and Political Reaction
Popular YouTube channel “Aaj Ki Taza Khabar” and social media co-in charge of Delhi BJP, Ankit Jain, were among those voicing their opposition. Jain assured that the rapper would not be allowed to perform in India, reacting to the offensive statements by the artist. Users also tagged Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, urging them to cancel the event.
SkillBox’s Response
In response to the outrage, SkillBox announced that they would be delisting the event from their platform out of respect for public sentiment. Co-founder and CEO Anmol Kukreja shared the update on Instagram, declaring, “@skillboxofficial always changing landscape! Pre-registration open now! Big ups to @desi_disco.au.”
Ongoing Plans by Organisers
Despite SkillBox’s decision, the tour organisers, Desi Disco, have indicated that they are still working on bringing the Pakistani artists to perform in India. The official website of Young Stunners continues to display their upcoming India tour.
However, the tour organisers, Desi Disco, have stated that they are still working on bringing the Pakistani artists to perform in India.
The official Young Stunners website continues to display their upcoming India tour on the front page.
