Diljit Dosanjh tells critics not to teach Punjabis how to fight battles

By Manya Bhasin

Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has responded to his detractors with a strong message during his Sunday concert, saying, “Don’t teach Punjabis how to fight battles.” Videos of his remarks went viral on social media, reigniting a debate over celebrities’ involvement in political movements, artistic freedom and public expectations.

The controversy dates back to June 2026, when Diljit was asked during an Instagram Live session about joining student protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar against alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak. He had responded: “Bro, keep me away from protests and such things. I am an artist. I am not a politician.”

His remarks sparked a wider conversation about the role of artists in public movements and expectations surrounding their responsibility towards Punjab’s identity and issues.

The remark triggered a sharp reaction from CJP members, particularly founder Abhijeet Dipke, who questioned the singer’s decision to stay away from the demonstrations. Critics argued that Diljit’s socially relevant projects and previous public positions had created expectations of greater involvement in public causes.

The debate soon brought his much-discussed film Satluj, originally titled Punjab ’95, into the spotlight. Based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, the film faced prolonged censorship-related hurdles, adding another dimension to the dispute.

Then came October 30
At the opening of his ‘Aura Tour’ at Jawahar Lal Nehru stadium in New Delhi he appeared to deliver a pointed response to his critics without naming anyone.

Diljit reiterated that he is an artist and wishes to remain focused on his identity as one, while expressing support for everyone. He also made it clear that Punjabis need no lessons in courage or standing up for their rights.

But the Delhi concert had another announcement in store. During the show he announced his Chandigarh show scheduled for 12th December 2026 at the New PCA stadium Mullanpur adds another major date to his India tour and brings the Punjabi superstar back to his home region.

A day after the Delhi concert, Dipke struck a conciliatory note. Admitting that Diljit’s earlier remarks had hurt him because of his admiration for the singer, he recalled attending his Chicago concert and requested him to let the matter go.

His words, “Chhota bhai samajh ke mitti pao” (consider me your younger brother and let bygones be bygones), gave the controversy an emotional Punjabi twist.

(Writer is an intern with The North News)