• Source:JND
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Ongoing Concerts Controversy: The vibrant music scene in India has been marred by a series of challenges faced by numerous Punjabi and international artists. In recent times, several high-profile performers, including the likes of Diljit Dosmenaj, Karan Aujla, and the globally acclaimed band Coldplay, have encountered significant difficulties while attempting to stage their concerts in India. Two primary concerns have been at the forefront of these issues: the rampant black marketing of tickets, which has led to widespread frustration among genuine fans, and the objections raised by certain sections of society and the audience regarding the style and content of the performances. Specifically, some of the songs and lyrics have been deemed objectionable, sparking heated debates and controversies. 

As a result, these artists have found themselves facing unbearable pressure and scrutiny, making it increasingly challenging for them to stage their concerts in India without encountering opposition and backlash.

Ongoing Concerts Controversy

Ranjit Bawa

Punjabi singer Ranjit Bawa has expressed his disappointment and remorse after his third consecutive show in Himachal Pradesh was cancelled, following allegations that his song Mera Ki Kasoor hurt Hindu sentiments. Bawa has issued a heartfelt apology to those offended by his song, emphasising that it was never his intention to cause harm or hurt anyone's feelings.

In a now-deleted Instagram story, Ranjit Bawa wrote, “After the cancellation of the Nalagarh show, some people spread hatred, using religion and politics to divide people. I appeal to the Honorable CM of Himachal to intervene as the third show in Himachal was also cancelled last year. Entertainment is meant to unite, but some are using religion to fuel division. We respect all religions, but some people are turning this into a Hindu-Sikh issue.”

“Our fans, who have supported us for years, are upset by this. We apologize for any offence caused by the song ‘Mera Ki Kasoor’ and are committed to spreading love and peace. We ask for prayers that hatred ends, and we return with shows soon. Love, peace, Waheguru,” he further added.

Diljit Dosanjh

Diljit Dosanjh’s Chandigarh concert was shortly put on hold over safety, noise pollution and allegations of children being served alcohol on stage. A day ahead of the concert, Diljit posted a thought-provoking note in Punjabi, which translates to, "No matter how high the dust rises, it can never taint the sky." The message, which appears to be a philosophical reflection on the nature of controversy and criticism, sparked a flurry of speculation among fans, with many interpreting it as a veiled response to the controversies surrounding the concert.

Coldplay Tickets Scam

Millions of fans of Coldplay and Diljit Dosanjh were left disappointed after tickets for their concerts sold out rapidly. Over 13 million people attempted to book tickets on BookMyShow, but the 150,000 tickets for Coldplay's Mumbai concert were snatched up in under an hour, leading to complaints about site crashes, long queues, and inflated prices on secondary platforms.

The resale market for concert tickets has reached alarming levels, with tickets for Coldplay's concert being resold at exorbitant prices. A ticket originally priced at Rs 12,500 was resold for a staggering Rs 336,000, while standing tickets initially priced at Rs 6,450 were being resold for up to Rs 50,000. This trend has prompted Zomato's ticket platform, Zomato Live, to take action, sending a legal notice to Viagogo for reselling tickets to Diljit Dosanjh's concert without authorisation.

Karan Aujla

Punjabi singer Karan Aujla has been issued a notice by the Gurugram district administration, citing World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The notice warns him against bringing children on stage during his shows in Gurugram on December 15, 17, and 19, as sound levels above 120 dB can be harmful to children. Additionally, Aujla has been prohibited from performing songs that promote alcohol, drugs or violence, and must ensure that individuals under 21 are not served alcohol during his shows.