Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming Indore concert has run into restrictions, with authorities directing organisers to ensure that four of his popular songs are not performed during the November 15 show. The directive follows a complaint by Chandigarh-based professor Pandit Rao Dharennavar, who objected to songs allegedly glorifying alcohol, drugs and violence, arguing that such content could negatively influence children.
The District Child Protection Officer, Women and Child Development Department, Indore, issued an official communication to C-21 Mall management on November 6, instructing it to ensure that the four tracks are excluded from the concert.
Four popular Diljit tracks under restriction
The songs identified in the directive include 'Patiala Peg', '5 Taara Theke', 'Case (Jeb Vichon Afeem Labhiya)' and 'Jatt Fire Karda'.
According to the communication, the lyrics of these tracks could have an adverse influence on young children. The authorities have also cited a July 22, 2019, order of the Punjab and Haryana High Court while directing the organisers to comply.
Interestingly, children aged five years and above will still be allowed to attend the concert, even as the four songs face restrictions.
Professor seeks ban even on modified versions
The complaint was filed by Dharennavar, who sought a complete restriction on the four songs, including versions in which the lyrics might be modified.
He argued that songs portraying alcohol consumption, drug use and violence in a favourable manner could influence impressionable young audiences. His objection was not limited to the words used in the tracks but also extended to the themes they allegedly promote.
The November 6 communication specifically directs organisers not to allow the four songs to be performed at the event.
Stage appearances and bullet belts also raise objections
Apart from the songs, the professor raised two additional objections concerning Diljit's live performances.
He sought a restriction on children being invited on stage, citing concerns over loud music and flashing lights at concerts and their possible impact on young audiences.
His complaint also questioned Diljit's use of two silver-coloured bullet belts, or imitation metal bullets, worn across his chest during performances. Dharennavar argued that such accessories could symbolise gun culture and violence, potentially sending the wrong message to children.
However, these two points were additional demands made in the complaint and are not separately specified as prohibitions in the November 6 directive.
Diljit’s Aura India Tour faces another complaint
Diljit is currently touring India as part of his Aura India Tour, with the Indore concert scheduled for November 15. The event is his second show in the country during the tour.
A complaint had also been filed in connection with an earlier concert, bringing the singer's stage performances and song choices under renewed scrutiny.
The Indore restrictions have once again brought the debate over popular music, children's exposure to entertainment content and artistic freedom into focus. While the complaint highlights concerns about the influence of lyrics and stage presentations on young audiences, the development also raises questions about how far restrictions on live performances should extend.
For Diljit's fans in Indore, one thing is certain: four of his popular tracks will be missing from the November 15 concert if the official directions are implemented.
