Diljit Dosanjh’s Pune Concert Goes Dry as Liquor Permit Gets Cancelled
Pune: Controversy Over Diljit Dosanjh’s Concert In Kothrud Raises Questions About Future Events
The Maharashtra excise department canceled the permit to serve alcohol at actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh’s “Dil-Luminati” concert in Pune’s Kothrud area on Sunday. The decision followed objections from various quarters, including newly elected BJP MLA Chandrakant Patil.
Permit Cancelled Over Cultural and Traffic Concerns
State excise commissioner C. Rajput confirmed the cancellation, stating, “The state excise department has canceled the permission to serve liquor during the programme.” The concert, scheduled at Kakade Farm later that evening, faced objections from MLA Patil, who argued the event could disrupt the area’s culture and create significant traffic issues.
In his statement, Patil remarked, “Such shows are not part of the city’s culture. This will create a major disturbance for residents of the area. The event will also cause traffic jams. Hence, I have urged the city police commissioner to cancel the programme.”
Diljit’s Stance on Alcohol-Themed Songs
Punjabi music star Diljit Dosanjh addressed the issue of alcohol references in his songs during his Ahmedabad concert, part of the “Dil-Luminati India Tour 2024.” Responding to a prior notice from the Telangana government, which advised him against performing songs about alcohol, drugs, and violence, Diljit made adjustments to his hits “Lemonade” and “5 Taara” to remove references to alcohol.
At the Ahmedabad show, he quipped, “There’s some good news. I didn’t get any notice today. There’s more good news: I’ll not sing a single song on alcohol today either. Ask me why? Because Gujarat is a dry state.”
Diljit, a teetotaler, suggested a broader movement: “If all states declare themselves dry states, I’ll stop singing songs on alcohol from the very next day… I take a pledge.” He further critiqued the dependence on liquor revenue, pointing out its prioritization during the pandemic.
A Warning to Critics
Diljit also had a strong message for his detractors, stating, “Don’t mess with me,” during his Ahmedabad performance.
The cancellation of the liquor permit for the Pune concert highlights ongoing debates around cultural norms, public safety, and individual expression in entertainment events.
