Nagpur: A video clip from a Pakistani talk show featuring Nagpur and its prominent locations has captured the attention of Nagpur residents and gone viral on social media. The clip is from a television show called “Khabarnak,” produced by veteran journalist Aftab Iqbal. The program showcases various cities around the world, including several cities in India, according to a report in a local English daily.
The show combines informative content with comedic elements and provides detailed information about Nagpur. The anchor highlights that Nagpur is the Winter Capital of Maharashtra and the third-largest city in the state. The program also mentions popular samosa shops near Telangkhedi Temple and the famous local dish, tarri-poha.
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Monday 10 Feb. 2025
The clip includes references to prominent landmarks in Nagpur, such as the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), with Deekshabhoomi referred to as a Dhammachakra Stupa. It also mentions well-known personalities from the city, including peace activist Nirmala Deshpande and RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar.
During the discussion about the RSS headquarters, one of the participants in the show dismisses it by saying, “That’s all, please.” Another participant questions its relevance. However, an expert on the show provides an explanation, highlighting that the RSS is the world’s largest voluntary organization, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) considered its political wing.
The video clip has generated significant interest among Nagpurians, who have praised the program and the Pakistani host for their efforts. The mix of information and comedy has garnered attention, contributing to its viral spread on social media platforms. The positive response from viewers in India reflects an appreciation for the program’s portrayal of Nagpur and its cultural aspects.
The popularity of the clip showcases the cross-cultural interest in exploring different cities and highlights the power of social media in connecting people from diverse backgrounds. The impact of the video clip on perceptions and understanding between nations is an example of how media can bridge gaps and foster mutual appreciation.
Responding to the newspaper’s query over voice message, Iqbal said he has been making shows in different cities of the world but there is special interest when it comes to cities from India. “This is because there is so much in common between the two countries,” he says, “I have always made an effort to highlight the brighter aspects of India.” Iqbal adds, however, that he has his own views on certain political issues.
The content is always based on merit and extensive research is done before production, he said. “The credit goes to the captain of the team Shakeel Sahab, who is always busy digging out information. We have a team of eight people and each one gives their best,” he said.
“We have received a lot of love from viewers not only from Punjab but also UP,” said Iqbal, who is the son of prominent Pakistani Urdu poet Zafar Iqbal.
Tejindersingh Rawal from Nagpur, who also champions cross-border friendship, said he has been regularly watching Khabarnak and it always has very objective information.
