Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has found himself at the centre of an unexpected controversy after a video surfaced of him touching Amitabh Bachchan’s feet during a recent television appearance. While many viewers saw the gesture as a traditional sign of respect, a pro-Khalistan outfit strongly criticised the act and issued warnings regarding Diljit’s upcoming international concert schedule, escalating the matter into a politically charged debate.
The Moment That Sparked Backlash
Diljit appeared as a special guest on a celebrity episode of a popular quiz show, where he greeted Amitabh Bachchan with a warm hug before bending down to touch his feet. The moment, widely circulated on social media, drew admiration from viewers who appreciated the cultural expression of respect towards an elder and industry icon.
However, the pro-Khalistan organisation interpreted the gesture very differently. The group accused Diljit of showing reverence towards someone they claim is linked to historical grievances connected to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The group released statements and videos online condemning Diljit, warning of consequences if he did not clarify his stance.
Warnings Over Concert Plans
The outfit particularly targeted Diljit’s upcoming tour dates abroad, especially a scheduled concert in Australia. They claimed they would attempt to disrupt or block the performance as a form of protest. This has prompted local event organisers and authorities to review security arrangements to ensure the safety of attendees and prevent public disturbance.
Industry insiders say that such threats are not new in the context of high-profile Punjabi artists, particularly when matters intersect religion, identity and political narratives. However, the scale of attention this time has risen quickly, given Diljit’s global popularity and the viral nature of the original video clip.
Diljit’s Response: Subtle, Not Direct
Diljit did not respond through a press conference or statement. Instead, he posted a brief, cryptic message on social media that many interpreted as his indirect response to the controversy. The message suggested that he would continue to walk his path calmly, without engaging in negativity or confrontation.
Fans widely read this as Diljit choosing dignity over drama. Supporters across India and abroad voiced solidarity with him and insisted that touching the feet of an elder is cultural, not political.
The Cultural Context
The gesture of touching an elder’s feet is a long-standing tradition across many Indian families, including Punjabi households. For a large number of viewers, the moment represented two generations of cinema — a senior legend and a younger star — honouring each other.
However, the controversy highlights how cultural expressions can become entangled in unresolved historical and political tensions. The association of Amitabh Bachchan’s public image with events of the past continues to evoke divided reactions among some groups, despite the absence of any legal conclusions or personal statements on those matters for decades.
Public Reaction and Support
Social media reactions have been fierce and polarised. Many fans of both Diljit and Bachchan defended the gesture as heartfelt and respectful. Punjabi artists, actors and musicians posted messages praising Diljit for maintaining composure and refusing to inflame the situation further.
Some commentators also pointed out that Diljit has consistently maintained an apolitical public identity, focusing instead on music, cinema and cultural pride. They expressed concern that artists often become targets when broader ideological disputes are being amplified.
What Happens Next
At the time of writing, Diljit’s concert plans remain in place. Discussions are reportedly underway with local authorities in Australia regarding additional security measures. There have been no announcements suggesting cancellation or alteration of the event.
Meanwhile, Diljit continues to promote his upcoming projects and has refrained from giving the controversy further attention. This approach aligns with his known public persona — calm, composed and rarely involved in direct conflict.
Conclusion
The situation illustrates how a simple cultural gesture can ignite strong reactions when intersected with political sentiment and historical memory. While the storm around Diljit may continue in the short term, his restrained response and broad support from audiences suggest that his professional journey is unlikely to be derailed. For now, all eyes are on whether the concert will proceed smoothly — and whether the controversy dissipates or escalates in the coming days.