No 'Patiala Peg' at Indore concert? Diljit Dosanjh's show comes with setlist restrictions; here's why

Diljit Dosanjh will not be able to perform four of his hit songs at his upcoming Indore concert. Authorities have directed the organisers of his November 15 show to ensure that four songs, including ‘Patiala Peg’, are not performed during the event. The decision follows concerns over lyrics that allegedly promote alcohol consumption, drug use and violence, particularly among young audiences.

The other three tracks facing restrictions are 5 ‘Tara Theke’, ‘Jeb Vicho Feem’ and ‘Jatt Fire Karda’. The directions were issued by Indore's District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) to the management of C21 Mall, where the concert is scheduled to take place. Copies of the notice have also been sent to the District Magistrate and the Police Commissioner to ensure compliance.

The move came after a complaint by Chandigarh-based activist Dr Panditrao Dharenavar, who objected to songs that he believes glorify intoxicants and gun culture. The official notice reportedly referred to a July 22, 2019, Punjab and Haryana High Court order directing authorities to prevent songs glorifying alcohol, drugs and violence from being played at public events, including live performances. The court had expressed concern about the influence of such content on children. According to reports, the venue's management has been asked to ensure that the four tracks are not included in the concert, even if their lyrics are modified.
The complaint also sought additional restrictions during the performance. Dharenavar reportedly asked the officials to prevent Diljit from inviting children on stage and wearing two crossed silver bullet belts, also known as bandoliers, or dummy metallic cartridges as part of his concert attire. He argued that such accessories could promote gun culture and violence. However, officials clarified that the directions issued to the venue specifically concerned the four songs.

The Indore concert has also faced security concerns ahead of the November 15 event. Three private schools and the office of Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava received bomb threat emails warning of blasts in connection with the show. Bomb disposal teams searched the schools but found no explosives. Police said preliminary investigations suggested that the threats could be hoaxes, while the Crime Branch continued examining the emails to identify their source.

Despite the concerns, Diljit has indicated that he intends to go ahead with the performance. In a video message shared on Instagram, the singer assured fans that he would be in Indore on November 15 and said the reported threats would be handled.

The latest restrictions are not the first time Diljit's music has faced scrutiny. During his 2024 Dil-Luminati tour, similar objections were raised over songs referring to alcohol and drugs. At his Hyderabad concert that year, the singer modified some lyrics, replacing references to liquor with alternative words. Similar advisories were also issued ahead of his Chandigarh and Mumbai performances.