Newsmakers

An unusual giveaway in Punjab is grabbing attention online, with businessman and social media personality Rakesh Trehan, popularly known as Raja D King, announcing an “iPhone Langar” in Chandigarh.

Trehan has said that the initiative will begin on September 22, with selected residents of Chandigarh and Mohali getting a chance to receive free iPhones. The distribution is expected to take place publicly and in front of the media.

However, despite reports referring to “1,000 iPhones”, the initial event is not expected to distribute 1,000 devices at once. According to reports, around 1,000 participants will form the initial pool, from which 10 people will be selected to receive iPhones. Trehan has separately claimed that arrangements could eventually involve as many as 1,000 iPhones.

Which iPhones Will Be Given Away?
Trehan has said that the giveaway will start with the iPhone 17 and newer models, while the iPhone 16 will not be part of the distribution.

He has claimed that 100 iPhone 17 units have already been ordered, while discussions are underway for a much larger number of devices. His earlier plan reportedly involved distributing 100 phones in Chandigarh and 200 in Mohali, with the initiative potentially expanding to other cities in Punjab.

The businessman has also said the phones will be distributed in phases to maintain transparency and prevent misuse.

What Is The Eligibility Condition?
The giveaway comes with an unusual condition.

Participants have reportedly been asked to join a designated WhatsApp group and write “Jai Mata Di” to become eligible for the draw. Trehan has said that names will be selected from those who meet the stated condition.

The September 22 event is expected to be held between 12 noon and 2 pm in Chandigarh, with the selection and distribution taking place publicly.

From Petrol Langar To iPhone Langar
This is not Trehan's first unconventional giveaway. He previously attracted attention for his **“petrol langar”**, under which he announced free fuel coupons for members of the public.

He had also organised an earlier event in Chandigarh where ₹500 currency notes were distributed outside a temple. His latest initiative takes the concept considerably further by offering smartphones worth a substantial amount to selected participants.

The iPhone giveaway was initially announced in August, while the September 22 date was finalised more recently. Trehan has indicated that the initiative could eventually expand beyond Chandigarh and Mohali, with additional Punjab cities potentially included.

For now, the biggest attraction is the prospect of receiving a free iPhone 17 or newer model. But with only a limited number of phones expected to be distributed during the first event, the “iPhone Langar” is likely to see considerable interest among prospective participants.