Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leader Abhijeet Dipke has reaffirmed his admiration for Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh following the singer’s recent Delhi concert, while opening up about a disagreement dating back to June. In a conciliatory message addressed to Dosanjh, Dipke said a remark made by the singer during a protest had hurt him, but stressed that his respect for the Punjabi star remained unchanged.
Dipke said his disappointment stemmed from the high regard in which he had always held Dosanjh, whom he viewed as someone who spoke up for causes. He also praised the singer for taking Punjabi music to a global audience while remaining connected to his roots.
In his message, Dipke recalled attending Dosanjh’s concert in Chicago in May, shortly before returning to India. He said he had gone not only to enjoy the music but also because he admired the person behind it.
“Your courage, your authenticity and the way you have taken India to the global stage while staying true to your roots are things I have always admired about you,” Dipke wrote.
He added that the disagreement had not diminished his admiration for the singer and urged him to let the matter go, addressing Dosanjh as an elder brother.
Why Diljit Dosanjh’s June Remark Drew Criticism
The disagreement began in June when Dosanjh distanced himself from the ongoing CJP protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The protest concerned alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy.
During an Instagram Live session, the singer was asked whether he would join the demonstration. In response, he said he was an artiste, not a politician, and did not want to be drawn into political matters.
“Keep me away from all this. Bro, I’m an artist. I’m no politician, I don’t know what you think I am,” Dosanjh said, according to the report.
He also quoted a line from the Guru Granth Sahib: “Nanak dukhiya sab sansar, so sukhiya jis naam aadhaara,” referring to the suffering experienced in the world and the peace found through faith.
Dosanjh added that protests were a matter for those involved and said he did not know enough about the issue to take a position. His comments attracted criticism from people who expected him to support the protesters.
Some also compared his response with his public support for farmers during the 2020 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws.
Diljit Defends His Position at Delhi Concert
The controversy resurfaced during the opening concert of Dosanjh’s seven-city Aura India Tour at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi on Friday.
Addressing the audience, the singer defended his position and said Punjabis did not need to be taught how to fight for a cause.
“Punjabion ko naa sikhaao kaise ladayiaan ladi jaati hain,” he said, meaning that people should not teach Punjabis how to fight battles.
Dosanjh also referred to his film about human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, saying the community had fought for a long time to get the project made.
He added that he preferred to remain quiet and spread love, including towards people who disliked him. The singer also referred to police action during the Jantar Mantar protest, saying it was wrong and that authorities should address the students’ demands.
Aura India Tour Opens Amid Rain and Delays
Dosanjh launched his seven-city Aura India Tour at JLN Stadium on Friday. The concert featured popular Punjabi tracks, audience interactions, laser displays and a drone show.
However, the event began later than scheduled, with rain and logistical issues contributing to delays. Some concertgoers also faced long queues outside the stadium because of delays in receiving entry wristbands.
The show ended with a visual display featuring the words “I’m an artist, bro”, echoing the remark at the centre of the controversy. Another display read “Main Hoon Punjab”, reinforcing Dosanjh’s connection with his Punjabi identity.
Dipke’s message indicates that, despite being hurt by the singer’s earlier comments, he does not want the disagreement to overshadow his admiration for Dosanjh. His appeal for the matter to be put aside adds a conciliatory note to the debate surrounding the singer’s stance on the protest.
