Chandigarh: Punjabi singer Ranjit Bawa has responded to criticism after his show in Jammu was cancelled earlier this month over a controversy linked to a five-year-old song. The performance, scheduled between 7 pm and 10 pm on November 5, 2025, was called off following protests by Hindu organisations.
Bawa said that the song at the centre of the row, Kasoor, was removed from his YouTube channel five years ago, yet “some people want to keep this controversy alive.” He said such groups were trying to gain “hollow fame and TRP” by repeatedly raising the issue.
“All religions are dear to me. I have never had any intention of mocking any religion, nor will I ever do so,” Bawa said. He added that he has not performed the song since the controversy began. “Those who distribute pamphlets against me are the ones promoting it by posting it on their own pages,” he said.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had opposed Bawa’s participation in the Jhidi fair in Jammu, alleging that the song contained remarks that hurt religious sentiments. The organisation submitted a complaint in Jalandhar and demanded that the singer be barred from performing.
The Jhidi fair is one of the major annual events in the region, attracting large crowds and featuring several artists. Following the protests, organisers decided to cancel Bawa’s appearance to avoid any untoward incident.
The singer’s statement comes amid renewed debate over the incident, with groups continuing to circulate clips and posts linked to the controversy.
