Diljit Dosanjh has found himself in the middle of a controversy. A Khalistani group targeted him after he touched Amitabh Bachchan’s feet on Kaun Banega Crorepati 17. The gesture was meant as respect. But it quickly sparked angry reactions online. The episode aired on 31 October, but the backlash started a day earlier when the promo came out.
In the clip, Diljit greeted Amitabh Bachchan politely and touched his feet out of respect. This is normal for guests on the show. However, the banned group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) reacted strongly. They accused Diljit of hurting the sentiments of Sikh victims of the 1984 riots. SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun also threatened to disrupt Diljit’s concert in Australia on November 1.
Fans waited for Diljit to respond. He stayed calm and did not engage in direct arguments. Instead, he chose to explain why he visited the show.
Diljit Dosanjh Breaks His Silence Amid KBC 17 Controversy
Diljit shared a message on his Instagram story in Punjabi. He wrote, “Na Mai Kisey Film Di Promotion Lai Geya c, Na Kisey Ganey Di Promotion Lai. Punjab Floods Lai Geya C..Ke National Level Te Gal Hove.. Te Loki Donate kar Sakan.”
He said he did not go to promote a film or song. His purpose was to speak about the floods in Punjab. He wanted national attention and support for relief efforts. He explained that his focus was helping people and encouraging donations.
Why The Backlash?
SFJ criticised him for touching Amitabh Bachchan’s feet. They claimed Bachchan played a role in the events of 1984 after the assassination of Indira Gandhi. Pannun said, “By touching the feet of Bachchan, the man whose words orchestrated Genocide, Diljit Dosanjh has insulted every victim, every widow, and every orphan of the 1984 Sikh Genocide.”
These claims have existed for years. However, they have not been proven in court. Government records say around 2,800 people died in Delhi and over 3,300 across India during the 1984 riots. November 1 is now observed as Sikh Genocide Remembrance Day.
What Is Diljit Dosanjh Doing Now?
Diljit Dosanjh is currently in Australia and has continued with his Aura Tour. He has not stopped performing. Apart from his Instagram note, he has not made any other public comment. For now, he seems focused on his work and on spreading awareness for Punjab flood relief.
