Diljit Dosanjh SLAMS “Conspiracy theories” over Punjab spelling and missing flag emoji: “How many times do we have to prove that we love India?”

Diljit Dosanjh SLAMS “Conspiracy theories” over Punjab spelling and missing flag emoji: “How many times do we have to prove that we love India?”

Diljit Dosanjh recently addressed a wave of criticism over his use of the spelling “Panjab” in a tweet promoting his Chandigarh concert. The spelling choice, commonly associated with the Pakistani side of the region, along with the absence of the Indian flag emoji in the tweet, led some social media users to accuse Diljit of having political motives.

Diljit, known for his pride in his Punjabi roots, took to Twitter to clarify his stance, shutting down what he described as baseless conspiracy theories. Sharing a screenshot of the post in question, he wrote: “PANJAB, kisi Ek tweet mein agar PANJAB ke saath India flag mention reh Gaya toh conspiracy. Bengaluru ke tweet mein bhi ek jagah reh Gaya tha mention karna. Agar Punjab ko PANJAB likha toh conspiracy. PANJAB ko chaahe PUNJAB likho PANJAB WILL BE PANJAB (If I forgot to mention the India flag with Panjab in one tweet, then you create a conspiracy. I missed mentioning it even in a Bengaluru tweet. If I write Punjab as Panjab, then conspiracy).”

He further explained the historical and linguistic significance of the term “Panjab,” stating, “Panj Aab – meaning Five Rivers… Hats off to those who are using foreigners’ language (English) to push conspiracy theories. In the future, I will write PANJAB in Punjabi, as in Gurumukhi. You guys won’t stop, I know. So keep going. How many times do we have to prove that we love India? Do something new or have you been given a task to create conspiracies around me?”

ਪੰਜਾਬ ????????
Kisi ek Tweet Mai Agar ਪੰਜਾਬ ke Saath ???????? Flag Mention Reh Gaya Toh Conspiracy

BENGALURU ke Tweet Mai bhi Ek Jagha Reh Gaya Thaa Mention Karna..

Agar ਪੰਜਾਬ Ko PANJAB Likha toh Conspiracy

PANJAB Ko Chaye PUNJAB likho..
ਪੰਜਾਬ ਪੰਜਾਬ Hee Rehna ????

Panj Aab – 5 Rivers… pic.twitter.com/a1U7q8DW5j

— DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh) December 16, 2024

Diljit Dosanjh’s Tour Amid Controversies
Diljit is currently on his Dil-Luminati India Tour, which has faced its share of controversies. Recently, the Telangana government issued directives barring him from performing songs promoting alcohol, drugs, or violence during his Hyderabad concert. In response, Diljit challenged state governments to ban alcohol entirely on the days he performs, pledging to never sing such songs again if they complied.

The tour continues with an upcoming performance in Mumbai on December 19 and will conclude in Guwahati on December 29.

Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh criticizes India’s concert infrastructure; says, “I will not perform shows here until things improve here”

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked May Take Place on January 22; Galaxy S25 Series, Project Moohan Likely Announceme… – Gadgets 360

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked May Take Place on January 22; Galaxy S25 Series, Project Moohan Likely Announceme… – Gadgets 360

The Hindi film industry’s BIGGEST star doesn’t speak Hindi. And that’s perfectly fine

The Hindi film industry’s BIGGEST star doesn’t speak Hindi. And that’s perfectly fine

Pushpa 2: The Rule has shattered every single record in the Hindi movie business. But here’s the kicker – the actor leading this phenomenon isn’t from Mumbai. He’s a Telugu star from Andhra Pradesh who doesn’t even speak Hindi fluently. Yet, he’s the man audiences from Meerut to Malad, from Varanasi to Vikhroli, are rooting for.

Why? Because the Hindi movie business, like India itself, extends far beyond Bandra and Khan Market. It thrives on stories that resonate deeply with audiences across the heartland. Pushpa 2 is that story.

At its core, the film isn’t just about action and spectacle – it’s about roots. It’s the story of a man grounded in his soil, doing a job that demands his hands, his sweat, and his grit. It’s a tale of dignity, family, and culture – a tale every Indian can relate to.

When we Neuro tested audiences what truly struck a chord with them was the turning point in the film: an insult to his wife. That moment, rooted in pride and love, becomes the catalyst for the protagonist to rewrite not just his destiny, but that of his entire state. The second most engaging sequence was the Gangamma Jatara. Something people outside Andhra and Karnataka aren’t even aware of.

But at its core, this isn’t the story of a superhero. It’s the story of a man. A man who embodies the ethos of hard work, resilience, and family values. The actor behind this phenomenon? He’s someone who connects with the audience not because he’s larger than life, but because he’s just like them.

The success of Pushpa 2 is a wake-up call for Bollywood. Authenticity, culture, and relatable stories are what audiences want. And when done right, they transcend language, geography, and boundaries.

What do you think this means for the future of Indian cinema? Is this the beginning of a pan-Indian era where language no longer defines stardom?

(Aditya Shastri is the Managing Partner at 5th Dimension)

Also Read: Allu Arjun starrer Pushpa 2: The Rule makers aim for Oscars 2025 with extensive US tour: Report

EXCLUSIVE: Swapnil Joshi to make Gujarati film debut; says, “I felt this is the best opportunity to expand my horizon”

EXCLUSIVE: Swapnil Joshi to make Gujarati film debut; says, “I felt this is the best opportunity to expand my horizon”

Gujarati cinema is set to welcome Swapnil Joshi as he makes his debut in the industry with a highly anticipated film, slated to release in 2025. Swapnil will surprise audiences with a role that is both unexpected and groundbreaking. The film will also star National Award-Winning Actress Manasi Parekh in the lead role.

This project is being produced by Parthiv Gohil and Manasi Parekh under their banner, Soul Sutra, marking their fourth production after Golkeri, Kutch Express, and Jhamkudi. Dhaval Thakkar (RD Brothers) is co-producing the film. Directed by Nisarg Vaidya, who previously helmed a Gujarati film with veteran actor Sidharth Randeria, the film promises to break new ground as a dark comedy thriller.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Swapnil said, “The Gujarati film industry is evolving rapidly and producing remarkable content that resonates with audiences far and wide. I’ve always believed in the magic of cinema being universal, and this opportunity allows me to collaborate with a thriving industry. Also, I’ve always admired Manasi as an actor and wanted to work with her. The role challenged me and I felt this is the best opportunity to expand my horizon.”

Actor-Producer, Manasi Parekh added, “We are thrilled to have Swapnil onboard. It definitely elevates the film both in terms of creative and commercial values. Given his body of work, I’m both jumpy and excited to share screen space with him. We have already met for look tests and workshops, exchanged our initial notes and now waiting to roll.”

A name in Marathi cinema, Swapnil has entertained audiences with his performances in films and television. With this venture, he continues his journey of exploring diverse cinematic landscapes, pushing boundaries and working across regional industries.

Also Read : Swwapnil Joshi calls himself “mumma’s boy” in throwback video, pens heartfelt note on mother’s 74th birthday

PM Narendra Modi expresses grief over Zakir Hussain’s death, calls him “Cultural icon”

PM Narendra Modi expresses grief over Zakir Hussain’s death, calls him “Cultural icon”

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences following the death of legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain. Hussain, who passed away at the age of 73 due to complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, was a globally recognized figure who transformed the world of Indian classical music. His family confirmed that he died peacefully in a San Francisco hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for two weeks.

A Heartfelt Tribute from PM Modi
Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to pay his respects to Hussain, describing his passing as a profound loss. An excerpt of his post read, “Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm.”

Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2024

Hussain’s Peaceful Passing
Zakir Hussain’s sister, Khurshid Aulia, shared that the tabla maestro passed away peacefully after the ventilation machine was turned off, at approximately 4 pm San Francisco time. Hussain’s family described him as leaving behind “an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe.”

Zakir Hussain’s contributions to music earned him immense recognition, including four Grammy Awards throughout his career. In addition, he was honored with India’s highest civilian awards: the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Also Read: Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain passes away in US: Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, AR Rahman, Kangana Ranaut, and others mourn the loss

Shakti Kapoor spared from kidnapping plot: Cops reveal shocking details

Shakti Kapoor spared from kidnapping plot: Cops reveal shocking details

Authorities have uncovered shocking details about a gang’s plot to kidnap veteran Bollywood actor Shakti Kapoor. The revelations come in the wake of an investigation into the recent abduction of actor Mushtaq Mohammad Khan, who was kidnapped from Delhi airport and held hostage in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, before managing a daring escape.

Details of the Kidnapping Plot
Four members of the gang involved in Mushtaq Khan’s kidnapping were apprehended by the police. Bijnor Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Jha disclosed that the gang specialized in luring film stars under the pretense of event invitations. They would send advance payments and air tickets to gain the trust of their targets.

Mushtaq Khan became a victim of this scheme. On November 20, Khan arrived at Delhi airport, expecting to attend an event in Meerut. He was forcibly taken from a stopover on his journey and held hostage. The gang accessed his bank details during his captivity, withdrawing ₹2.2 lakh before Khan managed to escape.
Why Shakti Kapoor Was Spared
According to a PTI report quoting authorities, Shakti Kapoor was also on the gang’s radar. They had offered him Rs 5 lakh to attend an event, but the deal fell through due to Kapoor’s high advance payment demand. This unexpected hiccup saved the veteran actor from becoming their next target.

Police revealed that the gang’s modus operandi involved selecting celebrities with significant public appeal. “The gang planned meticulously, but Shakti Kapoor’s insistence on a higher advance amount led them to abandon their plans,” said SP Abhishek Jha.
Ongoing Investigation
Efforts are underway to trace the remaining members of the gang, including their leader, Lavi alias Rahul Saini. The police have recovered Rs 1.04 lakh from the arrested individuals and are investigating possible links to other abduction cases involving film personalities.
A Widening Criminal Network
In a related case, another gang member, Arjun, involved in comedian Sunil Pal’s abduction, was injured during an encounter with the police in Meerut. Arjun was arrested after attempting to escape custody by snatching a sub-inspector’s pistol and opening fire. Meerut SSP Vipin Tada confirmed the recovery of an SUV used in Pal’s kidnapping and cash amounting to Rs 2.25 lakh.

Also Read: After Sunil Pal, Welcome actor Mushtaq Khan claims he was kidnapped and managed to escape