In a spirited defence of his artistry during his Lucknow concert on November 22, Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh addressed recent criticism about the alleged promotion of alcoholism and gun violence in his music, turning the spotlight on what he sees as double standards in Indian entertainment.
Diljit Dosanjh hit back at critics at Lucknow concert
The “GOAT” singer, currently electrifying audiences on his Indian leg of the Dil-luminati tour, aimed at a particular television anchor who had challenged him to create hits without alcohol references. “For your kind information sir, Born To Shine, Kinni Kinni, GOAT, Naina, Lover… mere bahot saare gaane hai jo Patiala Peg se bahot zyada hit hai. Aapka challenge toh bekaar ho gaya,” Diljit Dosanjh fired back, listing his numerous successful songs that don’t mention alcohol.
The National Award-winning artist didn’t stop there. He highlighted the inconsistency in media scrutiny between the film and music industries with characteristic wit and wisdom. “I am not defending my songs. I just want to say that if you want to censor songs, then the censorship should be on Indian cinema as well. Which big actor has not done an alcohol song or scene?” he questioned, challenging the selective outrage.
Mere Kaam Sasta Kaam Nahi Hai: Diljit Dosanjh
Emphasizing his artistic credibility, Dosanjh declared, “Mera kaam sasta kaam nahi hai,” reminding critics of his National Film Awards recognition. He maintained a diplomatic stance, adding, “It’s very easy for us to run a disclaimer that alcohol is injurious to health during concerts and sing songs, but then it will look like we are targetting someone.”
The controversy hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm for his Dil-Luminati Tour, which has already conquered stages across the US, Canada, and Europe. The India leg kicked off in Delhi on October 26, followed by shows in Hyderabad and Ahmedabad – the latter featuring a surprise appearance by Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan that sent fans into a frenzy.
As Dosanjh prepares for his next stop in Pune, his Lucknow performance has done more than entertain – it’s sparked a larger conversation about artistic freedom and equal standards across India’s entertainment industry.
