VIDEO: Vikrant Gupta falls in love with Lahore all over again

Renowned Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta has arrived in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, marking his first visit in nearly two decades.  

In a viral video featuring Gupta alongside Pakistani sports journalist Sanaullah at Liberty Chowk in Lahore, he shares his thoughts on returning to Pakistan after so many years.

During their conversation, Sanaullah asked, "Gupta Bhai, you're seeing Liberty Chowk after so many years. How does it feel?"

Gupta replied, "Yes, I remember when the 2004 and 2006 series took place, we used to pass through this very road. Some things have changed, but the beauty of big cities is that their character remains the same. The vibe here still feels the same."

Sanaullah then asked, "Have you noticed any development?"

Gupta responded, "Well, we haven't explored much yet. We just came from the hotel to Liberty Chowk. There's still a lot of Lahore to see."

Talking about his previous visits, Sanaullah asked, "Is the area where you're staying now different from where you used to stay before?"

Gupta reflected on his memories, recalling, "Yes, it is. Back then, we used to stay on the other side of the city. I still remember it. Once we go there, I'll see how much it has changed. From here, I can even see the stadium. As we get closer, I remember the hockey stadium, NCA, and the cricket stadium. There was a big parking area in front of it and even a football ground. Let's go and check it out."

The conversation then shifted to Pakistani cuisine, as Sanaullah curiously asked, "How did you find the food? You had daal (lentils) today."

Gupta enthusiastically responded, "Yes, I had daal, and it was amazing! I also had parathas with pickles."

Sanaullah, surprised, added, "Pickle parathas! That's interesting because I've been eating here for six years, and I never had a pickle paratha before. And you got it on your first day!"

Gupta laughed and said, "Well, Paji made sure I had it. And it was fantastic!"

Speaking about the hospitality he received, Gupta expressed his gratitude, saying, "The respect I have received here is overwhelming." He also praised the local food, adding, "Pakistan's cuisine is absolutely amazing. The flavours are just incredible!"

The Indian team is playing their matches in the Champions Trophy in Dubai using a hybrid model.