Visual Digital Resistance: Examining the Humour and Hostility in Pakistani Instagram Memes Post Pahalgam Incident

Abstract

This study examines the role of memes as a form of digital resistance in response to the Indian threat following the Pahalgam incident of April 22, 2025. When the geopolitical tension between Pakistan and India heightened Instagram emerged as platform where humour and satire were used to encounter hostility. This study is based on thematic analysis of 24 purposefully selected memes shared in a week after the pahalgam incident. The research identifies recurring themes such as satirical nationalism, military symbolism, historical parallels, and emotional catharsis. These memes were political expression, digital resistance and solidarity in response to Indian propaganda. The findings reveal humour and hostility in memes counter political threats by becoming “weapons of the week”. The study highlights that memes serve as the symbols of resilience, determination and unwavering nationalist spirit. This study contributes to the growing discourse on digital resilience and activism showing how humour and sarcasm are incorporated in forms of memes to maintain peace at the time of conflict.