Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has found himself at the center of a controversy after a banned Khalistani outfit, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), criticized him for touching Amitabh Bachchan’s feet during a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 17.
The candid moment, widely circulated online, was hailed by fans as a display of humility and reverence. On the show, Amitabh Bachchan introduced Dosanjh as “Punjab da puttar” before warmly embracing him, drawing appreciation across India.
SFJ’s chief, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, however, released a video denouncing Dosanjh’s gesture, alleging that by bowing before Bachchan, the singer had “insulted every Sikh widow and orphan” affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Pannun accused Dosanjh of “betrayal” and reiterated SFJ’s demand that no Sikh should perform or celebrate on November 1, a day the group observes as the Day of Remembrance for riot victims.
In its latest threat, SFJ warned it would attempt to disrupt Dosanjh’s upcoming concert in Australia, scheduled for November 1. The outfit also urged Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj to summon the artist for clarification.
The Indian government has designated SFJ a terrorist organization, while Pannun remains a wanted fugitive under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Dosanjh has so far refrained from making any public comment.
The controversy highlights how a simple act of respect on national television has spiraled into a debate over faith, identity, and the long shadow of historical trauma.
