In the vibrant markets of Sahiwal, a district in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province, a local food vendor is gaining fame for more than just his delectable kheer (a traditional rice pudding). Saleem Bagga, 53, is being hailed by locals as the spitting image of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump—and the resemblance is driving both business and curiosity.
A unique selling point: “Trump sells kheer“
Donning a black jacket over his beige shalwar kameez to brave the winter chill, Bagga pushes his colorful wooden cart down the bustling streets, offering bowls of creamy kheer to eager customers. But it’s not just his pudding that draws attention.
“We feel as if Trump has come here to sell kheer,” said Mohammad Yaseen, a resident who makes it a point to buy the dessert from Bagga.
Adding to his appeal, Bagga serenades potential buyers with a Punjabi love song, crooning, “Now you come down to me, my love, don’t delay, my eyes are tired of waiting.” His unique marketing strategy has turned him into a local celebrity.
Selfies, songs, and delicious pudding
For many, buying from Bagga is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Resident Imran Ashraf summed it up: “His kheer is really delicious. We talk to him, take selfies with him, and tell our friends we’ve taken pictures with Trump.”
Bagga’s distinctive blond quiff, the result of his albinism, is often mistaken for the iconic hairstyle of the former U.S. president. Cameras frequently follow him as he navigates the market, and his resemblance has made him a household name in Sahiwal.
In an interview with Pakistani news channel Samaa TV this month, Saleem revealed that he suffers from albinism, a rare hereditary illness in which the body generates little to no melanin, resulting in pale skin and great sensitivity to sunlight.
A message for Donald Trump
Despite the constant attention, Bagga remains humble, enjoying the spotlight and embracing his newfound fame. “My face resembles Donald Trump, that is why people take selfies with me…I feel very good,” he said with a smile. He even extended an open invitation to Trump himself, saying, “Donald Trump sahib, you have won the election. Now visit here and eat my kheer; you will really enjoy it.”
In Sahiwal, this “Trump of kheer” has become a heartwarming symbol of creativity and resilience, showcasing how even a small-town food vendor can turn a resemblance into a thriving business.
