8th October 2023,Mumbai: Gurdas Mann’s Responsible Decision
Renowned Punjabi singer Gurdas Mann has taken the responsible step of canceling his Canada tour, citing the ongoing diplomatic unrest between India and Canada as the primary reason.
Diplomatic Tensions between India and Canada
The cancellation of Gurdas Mann’s tour comes against the backdrop of escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. The controversy erupted when Canada accused India of involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. India vehemently denied these allegations and sought specific information from Canada, which was allegedly never provided.
Visa Services Suspended and Diplomatic Shifts
The diplomatic fallout reached such a point that India suspended its visa services in Canada, and Canada started relocating its diplomats from India amid accusations of interference in internal affairs. India also alleged that Canada had provided a safe haven to Khalistani terrorists, including Hardeep Singh Nijjar, despite multiple alerts from India.
Canada’s Sikh Population and Punjabi Rappers
Canada is home to the largest Sikh population outside of Punjab, and it has a thriving Punjabi music scene. Several Punjabi rappers, including Gurdas Mann and Shubhneet Singh, have faced controversy and cancellations due to their perceived connections to Khalistani views.
Shubhneet Singh’s Cancellation and Response
Canada-based rapper Shubhneet Singh had his India tour canceled in September due to outrage over his pro-Khalistani views. He expressed his love for India and Punjab, highlighting that Punjabis have a long history of sacrificing for the country and requested not to label every Punjabi as a separatist or anti-national.
Impact on the Music Industry
The controversy surrounding Punjabi artists like Shubhneet Singh and Gurdas Mann has sent shockwaves through the music industry. Indo-Canadian rapper AP Dhillon faced calls for a boycott after expressing solidarity with Shubhneet, emphasizing the pressure on musicians to carefully consider their actions.
Diljit Dosanjh’s Involvement
Even Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh found himself dragged into the Khalistani row on multiple occasions, illustrating the far-reaching impact of the diplomatic tensions between India and Canada.
Gurdas Mann’s Deferral and Promise to Fans
Amidst the controversy and diplomatic turmoil, Gurdas Mann chose to defer his Canada tour. He reassured his fans that all purchased tickets would be refunded, and new tour dates would be announced in due course.
The cancellation of Gurdas Mann’s Canada tour is a reflection of the complex and contentious diplomatic relationship between India and Canada. The controversy has not only affected renowned artists but has also put pressure on the Punjabi music industry, which has a significant presence in Canada. As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how artists and performers will navigate these diplomatic waters while continuing to entertain and connect with their global audiences.
-by Kashvi Gala