Diljit Dosanjh addresses ‘I’m an artist, bro’ remark row: 'Don't teach Punjabis how to fight'

Diljit Dosanjh (Pic/X)

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh hit back during his Aura India Tour concert in New Delhi on Friday, addressing the backlash over his earlier "I'm an artist, bro" remark. In a befitting reply, he responded to those who allegedly mocked his film Satluj during the CJP protests in Delhi a few months ago for his decision not to get involved in politics or support the CJP's protest.

Diljit Dosanjh addresses ‘I am an artist' remark

On Friday, Diljit said, without naming the CJP directly, "I love all of you because I am an artist, bro. I am being quiet, so let me stay quiet. I support all of you. But don't teach Punjabis how to fight." Interestingly, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke, who had previously criticised Diljit for his comment, also attended the concert. He later took to Instagram to pen an open letter to the singer.

For the unversed, during an Instagram Live session, Diljit asked to be distanced from the CJP protest, stating, "Bro, keep me away from protests and such things. I am an artist. I am not a politician." His comment disappointed many, as he has often used his platform to speak up about political issues. Pointing to the police action during the Jantar Mantar stir, he emphasised that what transpired was wrong and urged authorities to address their demands.

Diljit on Satluj controversy

He then addressed the remarks against Satluj and added, "The film you are making fun of on stage, Jaswant Singh Khalra's film - we fought for that film for a long time. I love all of you. If someone hates us, it's okay. But I love all of you."

The biographical drama film Satluj (Ghallughara and Punjab 95), directed by Honey Trehan and starring Diljit Dosanjh, was removed from the ZEE5 OTT platform in India within 48 hours of its July 3, 2026, release. The film follows human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated missing persons and alleged secret cremations in Punjab during the late 1980s and early 1990s before his own death in 1995. Sikh bodies and several political leaders in Punjab condemned the ban and even conducted private screenings.