Punjabi actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh meets PM Modi; A fantastic start to 2025 Says Diljit Dosanjh
Diljit Dosanjh's Meeting with PM Modi Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid Farmer Protests
Mumbai/New Delhi: Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh kicked off 2025 with a high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing it as a “fantastic start” to the New Year. The meeting, held on New Year’s Day, highlighted Diljit’s rise from a modest background to global recognition, with PM Modi lauding him as “truly multifaceted.” However, the encounter has not been without controversy, drawing sharp criticism from protesting farmers.
Diljit, who has been a vocal supporter of the farmers’ movement in the past, now faces backlash from farmer leaders who question his commitment to their cause. His Instagram post featuring glimpses of the meeting has fueled the debate, especially among the farming community.
Praise from the Prime Minister
During the meeting, PM Modi commended Diljit’s exceptional journey from his humble beginnings to becoming an international icon. He highlighted Diljit’s contributions to Punjabi music and cinema, along with his ability to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Diljit recently wrapped up his Dil-Luminati Tour, which spanned months across India, showcasing his diverse talent as a performer. Sharing his excitement on social media, Diljit wrote, “A fantastic start to 2025. Thank you, Hon’ble Prime Minister.”
Backlash from Farmer Leaders
Diljit’s meeting with PM Modi has not been received well by farmer leaders. Critics have pointed out his participation in the 2020 farmers’ protest, where he stood in solidarity with protesters at the Singhu border and appealed to the government to address their demands.
Jagjit Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader, who has been on a hunger strike for 38 days at the Shambu border, expressed disappointment. “If Diljit truly cared about farmers, he would stand with us now, especially at such a critical juncture in our fight for the legalisation of Minimum Support Price (MSP),” Dallewal remarked.
Thousands of farmers, accompanied by hundreds of tractor-trolleys, have gathered at the Khanauri site to support Dallewal, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to the movement.
Farmers’ Movement: A Continuing Struggle
The farmers have vowed to continue their agitation until the government meets their demands, primarily centered around the legalisation of MSP through new legislation. Leaders argue that Diljit’s meeting with PM Modi sends a conflicting message about his stance on the farmers’ struggle.
A farmer leader at Shambu border commented, “Meeting PM Modi while ignoring the plight of thousands who are fighting for their rights raises doubts about his intentions.”
Diljit’s involvement in the farmers’ movement in 2020 had made him a significant figure in the protests. His decision to meet the Prime Minister at this time, however, has sparked speculation about a possible shift in his priorities. While the artist has yet to directly address the farmers’ concerns following the meeting, his actions have drawn widespread attention.
