At a concert in Ahmedabad, Diljit Dosanjh humorously addressed alcohol-themed song controversies, challenging states to enforce full prohibition if they want him to stop performing such tracks.
“I’ll Stop Singing About Alcohol If Liquor is Banned”
In response to a notice from Telangana authorities cautioning him against performing alcohol-themed songs, Diljit Dosanjh quipped: "Good news—I didn’t get a notice today!"
At his Ahmedabad concert, in Gujarat, a dry state, Diljit adapted his setlist, stating:"Since Gujarat is a dry state, I won’t sing about alcohol here."
He issued a broader challenge, calling for nationwide prohibition, declaring:"Shut all liquor shops across the country, and I’ll stop singing about alcohol. Let’s have honest leadership that doesn’t fool the youth."
Criticism of Pandemic Prioritization and Bollywood's Double Standards
Diljit criticized the prioritization of liquor shops during the COVID-19 pandemic while public health was sidelined. He contrasted his work with Bollywood’s alcohol-themed songs, saying:
"Bollywood produces thousands of songs promoting alcohol and endorsing brands. I don’t even drink! Yet, they target my tracks like Patiala Peg. My music includes devotional songs too, but no one talks about them."
Let's start Dry Nation Movement Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/K5RfuSn2Kx
— DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh) November 17, 2024
Response to Censorship and Adaptability in Music
The singer assured fans that censorship wouldn’t deter him:
"Tweaking lyrics is easy. I’ll change the songs, and people will still enjoy them."
He also criticized the disparity between the treatment of Indian and foreign artists:
"Foreign artists face no restrictions, but Indian singers get notices. Let me remind them—there is God, and I won’t let this go."
A Call for a National Movement
Diljit’s concert became a platform for advocacy: "If all states declare themselves dry states, I’ll stop performing alcohol songs in concerts. If the city I perform in declares a dry day, those songs won’t even be on my list!"
A Balanced Voice in Controversy
As an iconic figure in Punjabi music, Diljit’s statements highlighted his balancing act between artistic freedom and social responsibility. His humorous yet sharp commentary ensured his relevance in conversations beyond music, leaving fans eager to see how his stance might shape broader cultural discussions in India.