Diljit Dosanjh faces fresh Khalistani threats ahead of Auckland show
What's the story
Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh is reportedly facing fresh threats from pro-Khalistan groups ahead of his upcoming concert in Auckland, New Zealand on Thursday, November 13. The news comes just after disruptions were reported during his Perth show on November 9. Despite the growing tension, Dosanjh has remained unfazed and continues to share positive updates from his concerts on social media.
Concert disruption
Pro-Khalistan slogans raised during Perth show
According to India Today, pro-Khalistan slogans were raised during Dosanjh's recent show in Perth. The threats for his Auckland performance have now been issued by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned Khalistani outfit led by US-based extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. This group has previously targeted the Lover singer, further escalating the ongoing controversy.
Origin
Controversy ignited by Dosanjh's gesture toward Bachchan
The controversy started after a promo for Kaun Banega Crorepati 17 surfaced showing Dosanjh touching Amitabh Bachchan's feet, a gesture of respect that sparked anger among Khalistani extremists. Soon after, SFJ issued a threat against him on October 29, claiming that by bowing to Bachchan, the singer had "insulted every victim, every widow, and every orphan of 1984 Sikh Genocide."
Video message
SFJ accuses Dosanjh of disrespecting Sikhs
Pannun and his banned outfit SFJ released a video message targeting Dosanjh. They accused him of "insulting" victims of the 1984 Sikh genocide by showing respect to Bachchan, whom they alleged had "incited mobs" during the 1984 violence. For context, the Sikhs for Justice group is banned in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for its anti-national propaganda.
Dignified stance
Dosanjh has maintained his calm amid the threats
In the face of these threats, Dosanjh has chosen to stay calm and positive. He recently shared a post thanking his Adelaide audience for their support, emphasizing the importance of not stressing and maintaining control over one's actions regardless of circumstances. Thereafter, he has been sharing snippets from his Perth show online.