Telangana bars Diljit from singing songs referencing alcohol

Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh recently found himself in the spotlight after the Telangana government barred him from performing songs referencing alcohol and drugs at his Hyderabad concert. In response, Diljit issued a nationwide challenge that if all states ban alcohol consumption, he will permanently stop singing any alcohol themed songs.

At his next concert in Ahmedabad in Gujarat, which is a dry state, Diljit avoided performing such tracks, even though he hadn’t received any formal notice. Addressing his fans, he said, “Gujarat has banned liquor, and I respect that. If liquor shops are shut across India, I will never sing a song about alcohol again.” He also reminded the crowd that his music includes far more devotional tracks than those referencing alcohol. “I recently released two devotional songs, but everyone only talks about Patiala Peg,” he remarked.

Diljit also took a swipe at critics who accused him of promoting drinking. “I have never asked anyone to drink. Bollywood has many alcohol-themed songs, why single me out?” he questioned, adding, “I don’t even consume alcohol, and I don’t promote it like some celebrities do in ads.”