Dosanjh confronts Khalistani disruption in Canada concert
Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh briefly halted his live performance in Calgary, Canada, during his ongoing Aura Tour after noticing some audience members waving pro-Khalistan flags. Videos of the moment have since surfaced online, sparking debate across social media and within sections of the Punjabi community.
Addressing the situation mid-performance, Dosanjh responded to criticism surrounding both the flag display and his past public appearances.
In the circulating clips, he is heard defending his choices and reiterating his commitment to highlighting Punjab’s issues on global platforms.
“My job is not to do charity. But whichever platform I go on, I always talk about Punjab,” he said, referring to his appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati. “We often say the national media doesn’t talk about Punjab enough. I went there for the sake of Punjab and raised its issues. I’ve also donated generously to my state whenever needed.”
Dosanjh clarified that his participation in the show, where he donated his earnings toward Punjab flood relief in 2025, was intended to encourage broader public contributions. “People from all over India can donate to help the poor. That’s why I went there,” he added. Responding to ongoing criticism, he remarked, “If you still have an issue that I sat across someone on television… then keep waving however many flags you want.”
The singer also referenced his recent international appearances, including a feature on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he spoke about Punjab’s history and the Komagata Maru incident. Reflecting on the moment, Dosanjh highlighted the symbolic significance of performing in Canada.
“In 1914, when our people came to Canada for the first time, they weren’t allowed entry. Today, we’re filling stadiums here-that’s a big thing for us,” he said, referencing the historical journey of Punjabi migrants.
The controversy comes months after the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) announced plans in October last year to disrupt one of Dosanjh’s concerts in Australia. The announcement coincided with Sikh Genocide Remembrance Day, observed by the Akal Takht.
SFJ had criticised Dosanjh for a public gesture involving Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, alleging it disrespected victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh violence. The group’s general counsel, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, accused the actor of historical complicity and called for a boycott of Dosanjh’s performances.
The Akal Takht had, in 2010, officially recognised the 1984 killings as a genocide and designated November 1 as a day of remembrance.
Despite recurring controversies, Dosanjh has continued his international tour, maintaining that his global stage is aimed at amplifying Punjab’s cultural identity and historical narratives.
