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New Delhi: Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh briefly stopped his concert in Calgary after spotting pro-Khalistan flags in the crowd, addressing criticism over his public appearances and reiterating his focus on Punjab’s issues.

Concert halted, singer responds

During his Aura Tour performance, Dosanjh paused mid-show after noticing some audience members waving pro-Khalistan flags. Videos of the moment have circulated online.

Addressing the crowd, he responded to criticism from sections of the Punjabi community. “My job is not to do charity. But whichever platform I go on, I always talk about Punjab. We often say the national media doesn’t talk about Punjab enough.”

 

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KBC appearance defended

Referring to his appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati, he said he used the platform to highlight Punjab’s issues and contribute financially. “I went everywhere, including on that channel (Kaun Banega Crorepati) for the sake of Punjab. I put forth Punjab’s issues there. I’ve even donated generously to my state whenever needed.”

He added, “We can give the money, we are giving it to the people. But they had made a donation, people from all over India can donate. To help the poor. That’s why I went there,” before saying, “If you still have an issue that I sat across someone on television…jinne jhande dikhane dilkhai challo (then keep waving how many flags you want to).”

Global platforms and Punjab narrative

Dosanjh also spoke about his international appearances, including on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he said he highlighted Punjab-related issues. He referenced the Komagata Maru incident, recalling the struggles of Punjabi migrants.

“In 1914, when our people came to Canada for the first time, they didn’t allow us in. That stadium is just two kilometers away from that port. That’s a big thing for us, 55,000 people in the stadium. They didn’t allow us to come, but now we’re here,” he said.

Earlier controversy and SFJ reaction

Last year, pro-Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice had threatened to disrupt one of his concerts. Its general counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun criticised Dosanjh for touching the feet of Amitabh Bachchan, linking it to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

The group had called for a boycott and announced a protest outside the concert venue, terming the event a “mockery of remembrance.”