The high voltage clash between India and Pakistan at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo was always going to be more than just a game of cricket. On Sunday, February 15, the R Premadasa Stadium was buzzing with anticipation, not just for the opening ball but for a rare pre match musical spectacle featuring breakout sensation Hanumankind. While the Kerala born rapper set the stage on fire with his global hit Big Dawgs, fans were quick to notice one major omission from his setlist: the title track of the blockbuster film Dhurandhar.

The absence of the song has since sparked a massive debate across social media. For a track that dominated charts in 2025, its exclusion from such a massive platform seemed like a deliberate choice. As it turns out, the decision was rooted in a complex mix of geopolitical sensitivity and the desire to maintain the spirit of a neutral sporting event.

The Geopolitical Tension Surrounding Dhurandhar

To understand why Hanumankind avoided the track, one must look at the film itself. Directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, Dhurandhar is an intense spy action thriller that delves into sensitive historical and political themes. The movie depicts events like the 1999 Kandahar hijack and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, while also featuring a plot set in the Lyari region of Karachi.

Because of its portrayal of these events, the film and its soundtrack were officially banned in Pakistan. Despite this ban, reports suggest the movie became a pirated sensation across the border, but the official stance remains one of heavy restriction. Performing the title track in front of a stadium packed with both Indian and Pakistani fans could have easily been perceived as a provocative move rather than a musical one.

Prioritizing Sporting Spirit Over Controversy

The India vs Pakistan fixture is technically an ICC neutral event, even when the atmosphere feels anything but neutral. Critics and fans alike had already raised questions about why an Indian artist was chosen for a pre match ceremony in a game involving Pakistan. There were concerns that the event was tilting too heavily toward one side of the rivalry.

By choosing to skip the Dhurandhar title track, Hanumankind seemingly made a conscious effort to de escalate potential friction. Performing a song that is banned in the opposing nation could have overshadowed the athletic achievements on the field and amplified existing cross border tensions. Instead, he leaned into his global discography to find common ground through rhythm.

Big Dawgs: The Global Anthem That United the Crowd

In place of the controversial title track, Hanumankind delivered an electrifying rendition of Big Dawgs. This 2024 breakout hit was the perfect choice for a diverse, international audience. Its success on the Billboard Global 200 and its universal hip hop appeal allowed fans from both nations to cheer in unison, briefly shifting the focus from a heated rivalry to a shared appreciation for world class talent.

Accompanied by a troupe of energetic dancers and a spectacular light show, the rapper proved why he is considered the face of the modern Indian crossover movement. The performance turned the stadium into a concert venue, providing a high energy buildup that transitioned smoothly into the cricket match without any political aftertaste.

A Banner Year for the Rapper and Indian Cricket

While the debate over the setlist continues to trend, the evening ended on a high note for Indian fans as the Men in Blue secured a comprehensive 61 run victory. For Hanumankind, the Colombo performance marks another milestone in a career that has seen him move from the independent circuit to the biggest stages in the world.

The decision to leave out the Dhurandhar track highlights a growing awareness among artists regarding the impact of their work in sensitive environments. By choosing music that unites rather than divides, Hanumankind ensured that his performance would be remembered for its energy and artistry rather than for sparking a diplomatic row. As he enters 2026 with a massive global following, this tactful approach only further solidifies his status as a thoughtful and professional global icon.