Bollywood singer Mika Singh has sparked a discussion over what he describes as a contrasting attitude in India towards Muslims from Pakistan and those living in Dubai. The singer shared his views during his recent appearance on the podcast Baatein Dil Se With Navika Kumar, which premiered on October 2, 2026, on the Times Now YouTube channel.
Mika Singh Raises Questions Over Perceptions of Pakistani Muslims
During the conversation, Mika Singh spoke about what he believes is a difference in how people in India perceive Muslims based on where they come from.
“Don’t know why Pakistani Muslims bother us, but Dubai Muslims don’t,” Singh said, encouraging people to consider the reason behind this difference in perception.
He went on to clarify that he does not view Pakistan or its people negatively. “Pakistan isn’t bad. The people of Pakistan aren’t bad at all,” he said. Singh added that he has never understood why Pakistani Muslims are viewed differently from Muslims in Dubai, despite both being part of the wider Muslim community.
His comments come amid continuing conversations around India-Pakistan relations and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Singer Recalls His 2019 Pakistan Visit
Singh also referred to his own experience of visiting Pakistan in 2019. Recalling the trip, he spoke about the support he received from local Muslims and their efforts to maintain Sikh places of worship.
He said that several Muslims in Pakistan had helped with the cleaning and upkeep of gurdwaras, describing them as “our brothers” and highlighting the sense of mutual respect he witnessed during his visit.
Mika Singh Defends Artists Performing in Pakistan
The singer also addressed criticism faced by Indian artists who perform at private events in Pakistan. Singh distinguished between participating in a private function and publicly promoting another country.
He argued that there should not necessarily be an objection when an artist performs at a private event for payment, particularly when the earnings are taxed in India.
“I have no problem with Pakistani singers. When they come here, everyone stands up for them. Bollywood welcomes every Pakistani singer,” Singh said.
His remarks have attracted attention across social media and news platforms, adding to the ongoing discussion around India-Pakistan cultural relations and differing public perceptions of communities from the two countries.