The high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo was not just about cricket but also about entertainment. Before the match on February 15, popular Indian rapper Hanumankind delivered an energetic live performance that electrified the crowd.
The Kerala-based artist, who gained global fame with his hit track “Big Dawgs,” set the stage on fire with powerful music, dancers, and lighting effects. Thousands of fans inside the stadium and viewers around the world enjoyed the pre-match show.
However, one noticeable absence during the performance quickly became a topic of discussion online Hanumankind did not perform the title track of the blockbuster film “Dhurandhar.”
IND vs PAK Match Overview
| Match | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| India vs Pakistan, Match 27 | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | India won by 61 runs |
| India Score | 175/7 | |
| Pakistan Score | 114 all out | |
| Pre-match Event | Hanumankind Live Performance |
While India dominated the match on the field, the entertainment segment grabbed equal attention off it.
Why Was ‘Dhurandhar’ Not Performed?
According to reports and online discussions, the decision to skip the Dhurandhar title track was a precautionary move to avoid any controversy during a sensitive India-Pakistan fixture.
The film, starring Ranveer Singh, is based on a spy storyline involving cross-border themes and geopolitical tension. Because of its subject, the movie has faced restrictions in some regions, including Pakistan. With fans from both countries watching the match globally, organizers and the artist reportedly chose to keep the performance neutral and focused purely on entertainment.
The aim was to ensure that the spotlight remained on cricket and the sporting spirit, rather than triggering political or emotional reactions.
Social Media Reactions
The internet reacted quickly after the performance. Many fans appreciated the decision, calling it a smart move to avoid unnecessary controversy during such a high-profile match. Others were curious and questioned why the viral track was skipped despite being popular worldwide.
At the same time, clips of Hanumankind’s Big Dawgs performance went viral, with fans praising the energy and production quality of the show.
A Viral Moment Before the Match
Another moment that caught attention was Hanumankind’s meeting with Indian batter Ishan Kishan before the game. Fans pointed out their resemblance, and Kishan even gifted the rapper an Indian team jersey. The interaction quickly became a trending topic on social media.
Ishan Kishan & Hanumankind
— Keh Ke Peheno (@coolfunnytshirt) February 16, 2026
Twins?😳 pic.twitter.com/rEK6OjXd1P
Focus Remains on Cricket and Entertainment
Hanumankind’s performance added excitement to one of the biggest matches of the tournament. While the absence of the Dhurandhar track created online debate, the overall show was widely appreciated for its high energy and crowd engagement.
With India winning the match comfortably and the entertainment segment creating its own buzz, the IND vs PAK clash once again proved why it remains the biggest spectacle in world cricket — both on and off the field.
