Kashmiri , 22 September 2025- Pakistani cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has drawn criticism after making an AK-47-style gesture with his bat during a recent match against India. The act, widely circulated on social media, has been described as more than a display of sporting aggression, with many observers calling it a reflection of deep-seated radical symbolism in Pakistan’s cultural psyche.
Analysts point out that decades of militarization and extremist indoctrination have shaped a society where violence and jihadist imagery are often glorified. From the rhetoric of military generals to the narratives promoted by sections of media, cinema, and even sports, the prevalence of such symbolism has become a recurring concern.
Farhan’s gesture has therefore been seen not as an isolated incident but as an outcome of a larger cultural environment in Pakistan where radical expressions are normalised. Experts believe this underscores the challenges of expecting meaningful transformation through conventional dialogue.
“Diplomacy works with civilized states, but Pakistan’s historical trajectory demonstrates that it often responds only to displays of strength,” noted a security commentator, suggesting that strategic deterrence rather than dialogue has defined the effectiveness of engagement with Islamabad.
The Sahibzada Farhan controversy thus goes beyond cricket, serving as a reminder of the broader militarized mindset in Pakistan, where symbolism tied to extremism continues to influence public life and international perception.
