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Malaysian PM's Bollywood Playlist Choice Sparks Social Media Buzz

Malaysia's Prime Minister has set social media abuzz by selecting a classic Bollywood track for his post-BRICS summit social media post featuring Indian PM Narendra Modi. The choice of 'Dil Toh Pagal Hai' reflects the cultural connection between the two nations.

LSN India · 15 September 2026

The Malaysian Prime Minister's decision to accompany a photograph with PM Modi with the iconic song 'Dil Toh Pagal Hai' has captured widespread attention online, resonating with Bollywood enthusiasts across the region. The track, originating from the 1997 romantic comedy film of the same name featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor, became the centerpiece of his social media engagement following bilateral discussions at the BRICS summit.

The pairing of the photograph with the beloved Hindi film song underscores the soft power of Indian cinema across South and Southeast Asia, where Bollywood remains deeply embedded in popular culture. The selection highlights informal yet meaningful ways in which regional leaders acknowledge shared cultural touchstones with neighboring nations.

The viral response to the post demonstrates the continued relevance of classic Bollywood films in contemporary diplomatic and social exchanges. 'Dil Toh Pagal Hai,' which translates to 'The Heart Goes Crazy,' has maintained its popularity across decades, making it a recognizable reference point for audiences across age groups and geographical boundaries.

The incident reflects broader trends of regional leaders leveraging popular culture and entertainment to foster public engagement and reinforce bilateral relationships in ways that transcend formal diplomatic protocols.