‘Punjab Comes First’: Balkaur Singh Puts Remaining Shows on Hold
Balkaur Singh, father of slain Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, has postponed the remaining dates of his son’s Signed to God hologram tour in Canada and the United States amid continuing protests in Punjab over the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa.
In a social media post, Balkaur said the decision was taken in view of the prevailing situation in Punjab. Emphasising his priorities, he said, “Punjab comes first,” adding that Mansa and the state remained close to his heart.
Apologising to fans in Calgary and the US, Balkaur said he would not be able to meet them during the remaining tour dates this time. He assured fans that he hoped to return with a better presentation of Sidhu Moosewala’s music.
Toronto, Vancouver Shows Receive Overwhelming Response
Balkaur thanked fans in Toronto and Vancouver for their overwhelming response, stating that shows in both cities had been sold out. The performances in these cities had already taken place, while the remaining shows in Calgary and the US were put on hold.
The tour features a hologram presentation celebrating the music and legacy of Sidhu Moosewala, who was shot dead in May 2022.
Protests Continue Following Jhota’s Killing in Mansa
The announcement comes amid widespread anger following the October 13 killing of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist who was shot dead at a medical store in Mansa during a confrontation with its owner over alleged drug sales. The incident triggered protests and demands for accountability, with a statewide bandh observed on October 15.
Jhota had been known for campaigning against the alleged illegal sale of addictive substances. His killing has renewed public attention on Punjab’s drug problem and intensified calls for action against drug-related activities.
Balkaur Singh, a resident of Moosa village near Mansa, is also an aspirant for the Congress ticket from the Mansa Assembly constituency.
Neeru Bajwa Also Puts ‘Thaapi’ Screenings on Hold
In a separate development, Punjabi actress and producer Neeru Bajwa announced on October 18 that her film Thaapi would no longer be screened in cinemas from October 19 until the situation improved. The film had been released worldwide on October 16.
In her social media message, Bajwa said that Punjab and Punjabi culture were central to the film’s purpose, adding that cinema could not take precedence over the people and the prevailing situation in the state.
The decision came amid public anger over Jhota’s killing, reflecting how the incident has affected not only political discourse but also cultural and entertainment activities linked to Punjab.
Punjab’s Drug Issue Remains in Focus
The postponement of the tour dates and the suspension of Thaapi screenings highlight the wider impact of the protests following Jhota’s death. As public demands for justice continue, the incident has brought renewed scrutiny to drug-related concerns and the response of authorities in Punjab.
Both announcements underscore the significance of the prevailing situation for public figures with strong ties to the state, as calls for accountability and action against drugs continue.