Diljit Draws the Line: I Am an Artist
Actor-singer hits back at critics at Delhi concert; CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke reaches out to bury the hatchet
Diljit Dosanjh has a message for his critics: don’t mistake an artist’s silence for a lack of courage. Addressing the controversy over his “I’m an artist, not a politician” remark at his Delhi concert, the singer declared, “Punjabion ko naa sikhaao kaise ladayiaan ladi jaati hain” (Don’t teach Punjabis how to fight).
The remark came during the opening show of his Aura India Tour 2026 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday night. The controversy erupted in June, when Diljit distanced himself from protests organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over the NEET paper-leak controversy, saying he wanted to be kept away from protests. His stance drew criticism, especially in light of his support for the 2020 farmers’ protests.
At the Delhi concert, Diljit also touched on the censorship battle over Satluj, his film on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.
He ended on a note of love, telling fans, “If someone hates us, no problem, from our side it’s only love for everyone.” Stadium screens flashed “Main Hoon Punjab” and “I’m an artist”.
THE ROW THAT STARTED IT ALL
I’m an artist, bro. Keep me away from protests. I am an artist, not a politician.”
Diljit made the remark during a June Instagram Live on CJP-led protests over the NEET paper leak, drawing criticism over his stance on public causes.
CJP EXTENDS AN OLIVE BRANCH
After Diljit’s concert response, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke shared a conciliatory message expressing admiration for the singer and suggesting they move past their differences.