Kabul: A video capturing a heartwarming interaction between a Taliban border guard and an Indian tourist at what appears to be an Afghan border checkpoint has gone viral on social media. The brief clip, shared by Afghanistan-based X user Fazal Afghan, has drawn widespread attention for its display of unexpected camaraderie and goodwill between the two nations.
A rare moment at the Afghan border
In the video, an Indian biker travelling through Afghanistan is stopped by a Taliban guard for what seemed to be a routine passport inspection. The tourist calmly identifies himself as being from India. Almost instantly, the guard’s tone changes from official to friendly, his expression softening into a broad smile.
With warmth and enthusiasm, the guard says, “India, Afghanistan are brothers. No passport or written permission is required, please go ahead. Welcome to Kabul, Afghanistan.” He then gestures for the biker to continue on his journey without conducting any further checks.
The viral post and reactions
The post, which quickly gained traction across platforms, was captioned:
“An Indian tourist in Afghanistan was stopped by the Taliban at a checkpoint for a routine passport check. But the moment he said he was from India, they smiled, welcomed him, and let him go without even checking his documents. This is how Afghanistan treats its true friends.”
The video has since garnered thousands of views and shares, with many users commenting on the unexpected friendliness and mutual respect displayed during the interaction.
Social media divided over the gesture
Several netizens appreciated the gesture, calling it a reminder of the historical bond and goodwill that has long existed between India and Afghanistan. “I’ve been to Kabul thrice, and I can say this is very true. Afghan people respect Indians and offer a very warm welcome,” one user commented.
However, others pointed out the security implications of allowing travellers to pass without proper verification. “Appreciate the love for India, but the guard must do their job properly to avoid any security breach,” another user noted.
Some praised the Indian biker’s courage for travelling through a region still navigating post-conflict instability, while others highlighted that such encounters, though positive, reflect the unpredictability of visiting a country under Taliban rule.
India–Afghanistan relations
Despite India not officially recognising the Taliban government since its takeover in August 2021, people-to-people ties between the two nations remain strong. Many Afghans have historically viewed India as a friendly ally, particularly for its contributions to infrastructure, healthcare, and education projects in Afghanistan over the past two decades.
India has also maintained limited engagement with the Taliban administration on humanitarian grounds, providing aid such as food, medical supplies, and earthquake relief materials.
A glimpse into grassroots diplomacy
The viral clip offers a rare, humanising glimpse into life at the Afghan border — a space often associated with tension and uncertainty. The cordial exchange between the guard and the tourist has been interpreted by many as a symbolic act of goodwill that transcends official diplomacy.
While the incident sparked a range of reactions online, it also served as a reminder that individual gestures of respect and friendship can often leave a stronger impression than formal political exchanges.