Udta Punjab star ‘postpones’ US concert after film body’s protest

NEW DELHI: Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh won’t be performing at a Houston concert on Sept 21 following objections raised by Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). The Mumbai-based body had written to the Union minister for external affairs S Jaishankar asking for the cancellation of the Udta Punjab star’s visa because the show was being promoted by a Pak national, Rehan Siddiqi.
“…in lieu of (sic) the letter by FWICE I have decided to postpone my Houston show at this time. I love my country and will always stand for the greater interest of the nation,” the 35-year-old actor posted from his official Twitter handle on Wednesday.
Dosanjh has starred in a bunch of Punjabi superhits such as Jatt & Juliet and the popular music video, Do You Know. This is the second such incident in recent weeks when FWICE has interjected over a singer’s performance involving a Pakistani.
Last month Punjabi Pop singer Mika was “banned” by the film workers’ body for performing at a wedding in Karachi. The “ban” was lifted after he tendered an apology.
In a letter dated Sept 3, FWICE wrote, “Mr Dosanjh is a thorough gentleman and a superb singer/actor but he has been allured (sic) by the Pak national, Mr Rehan Siddiqi. His performance for the Pak national and people will set a wrong precedent in view of the current alarming situation between the two countries.”
“It is therefore our humble request to you to cancel the visa of Mr Diljit Dosanjh and his troupe or the application for visa be granted to restrain their performance in America as it will be labelled anti-national,” the letter further said.
After Dosanjh’s postponed the show, filmmaker Pandit posted, “FWICE really appreciates this stand of @diljitdosanjh. This kind of a stand sends a strong message that for Indians country comes first.