Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which prompted the Indian Army to carry out 'Operation Sindoor' targeting terrorist hideouts across the border.

Amid this strained atmosphere, a video of former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi being warmly welcomed by the Kerala community in Dubai has gone viral, sparking criticism and debate on social media.

On May 25, Shahid Afridi attended a cultural event organized by CUBAA, a Kerala-based community group in Dubai.

The event saw enthusiastic support for Afridi, with attendees chanting "Boom Boom" as he arrived.

Members paused their cultural performances to cheer for him, and Afridi also addressed the gathering with a brief speech. The video of the event quickly went viral, drawing a mix of admiration and backlash.

"Shahid Afridi showed up uninvited"

Cochin University alumni group issues statement

What a fall! Man who never misses a chance to mock India now gatecrashing Indian events 🤢 pic.twitter.com/I1trdnwrVG

— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) May 31, 2025

The video has drawn sharp reactions from several Indian users online, who questioned the Kerala community's decision to honor Afridi - especially in light of his recent statements criticizing India and the Indian Army.

Many noted the insensitivity of celebrating a figure who has publicly spoken against the country at a time of national grief and heightened tension.

Following the Pahalgam attack and Afridi's controversial remarks about the Indian Army and Operation Sindoor, the Indian government had taken steps to block several Pakistani social media accounts and YouTube channels, including Afridi's.

His statements were widely criticized in Indian media as inflammatory and disrespectful.

His statements were widely criticized in Indian media as inflammatory and disrespectful.