NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim may have been in New Delhi for high-level diplomacy, but his rendition of Kishore Kumar’s classic Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat struck a different chord, drawing positive reactions from many Indians.
The impromptu performance, which was posted on social media and has since gone viral, attracted widespread attention and quickly became a talking point, with viewers appreciating his choice of song and willingness to share a lighter moment during his busy schedule at the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit here.
“Sir, you sang an immortal classic by the legendary Indian singer Kishore Kumar, and honestly, you were no less than the legend himself,” said Biswajit Roy on X via his handle @roybiswajit2010, Bernama reported.
“When world leaders come to India and sing along to the melodies, it truly feels like the world is singing in India’s tune!”
“How absolutely lovely. Such a delightful song to choose to sing and in such a spirited manner. Simply wonderful, PM @anwaribrahim,” said Piyush Morade.
“You sing so brilliantly. Life is a song with tones of ups and downs. We loved it so, so much. This was indeed the sweetest part of the BRICS episode 2026,” said Soumik Dutta Roy on X via his handle @dutta_soum7132.
Kumar’s evergreen melodies remain deeply familiar for many, making the Prime Minister’s rendition a pleasant surprise and a nostalgic reminder of the legendary singer’s enduring appeal.
The song, from the 1965 Hindi film Teen Devian, is among the singer’s well-loved classics, and Anwar’s performance offered an unexpected musical bridge between Malaysia and India.
While bilateral meetings and summit discussions dominated his New Delhi visit, the rendition showed that diplomacy can sometimes go beyond the negotiating table and take the form of a light-hearted song.
At the time of writing, the one-minute, 32-second post had received 650,000 views on X. It had also attracted positive reactions on other platforms.
