Punjabi singer Guru Randhawa unexpectedly deleted his X (formerly Twitter) account after posting a cryptic message that many online interpreted as a veiled jab at fellow artist Diljit Dosanjh. The timing of the post, and its language, fueled speculation as tensions rise over Diljit’s new film Sardaar Ji 3.
“Lakh pardesi hoyieee. Apna desh nhi bhandi daa. Jehre mulk da khayie, us da bura nhi mangi da.”
(Translation: “Even if you become a complete foreigner, you should never betray your own country. One should never wish ill for the country that provides for them.”)
He followed it with a pointed English message:
“Even if now your citizenship is not Indian but you were born here, please remember this. This country made great artists, and we all are proud of it. Please be proud of where you were born. Just an advice. Now don’t start controversy again and manipulate Indians LOL. PR is bigger than the artist.”
In another tweet, he said:
“When the PR team is more talented than the talent itself, controversies become part of the daily routine..1st of every month, dropping bombs.”
Diljit Dosanjh and the Sardaar Ji 3 team are facing sharp criticism for casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The film, also starring Neeru Bajwa, will not release in India and is set to premiere overseas on June 27.
The move has angered many, especially in light of the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s recent Operation Sindoor. Two major film bodies – All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), have called for a ban on Diljit’s projects.
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Singer Mika Singh demanded that Diljit apologise and remove objectionable scenes. Meanwhile, fans are split. Pakistani host Nadia Khan called him a “Sikh brother” and said he showed courage in standing by his work. Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi questioned the double standards behind the backlash. Some defended Diljit’s artistic freedom, while others supported the backlash.
Guru Randhawa’s exit from X has added fuel to the fire, with many questioning whether his comments were part of a larger industry divide.
With Sardaar Ji 3 releasing only overseas and top industry voices turning critical, the controversy continues to escalate. Whether Diljit addresses the backlash or more voices join the fray remains to be seen.
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