AI Generated Summary
- A recent incident at a Gurdwara Sahib in London has stirred controversy after a dhaadi jatha recited a poem glorifying Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala from the stage in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
- Calling Voters ‘Traitors’ in ‘Scapegoat’In April 2022, Moosewala released the song Scapegoat, in which he lamented his defeat in the Punjab assembly elections.
- The song highlighted the cases and FIRs against him, which he referred to as a “badge of honor,” causing considerable uproar.
Usually, only Gurbani Kirtan or poetry related to Sikh Gurus and Sikh history is recited in gurdwaras. However, a recent incident at a Gurdwara Sahib in London has stirred controversy after a dhaadi jatha recited a poem glorifying Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala from the stage in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This act has drawn mixed reactions from the Sikh community—some consider it inappropriate and against religious decorum, while others see it as a tribute to Sidhu Moosewala.
Sidhu Moosewala was a popular Punjabi singer who was assassinated in 2022. He was also a rapper and a Congress party leader, known for his controversial image. Over time, he became associated with promoting Khalistan through his songs, and was frequently criticized for glorifying weapons and gangster culture in his videos.
One of his most serious controversies arose when he used objectionable words about Mai Bhago Ji, a highly respected figure in Sikh history. This led to outrage in the Sikh community, and he was summoned by the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht. Moosewala later appeared before the Akal Takht and apologized to the Sikh community.
Throughout his career, Moosewala was repeatedly involved in controversies due to the language and themes in his songs. Despite these issues, he remained immensely popular among the youth. While he faced accusations of promoting gangster and gun culture, those close to him described him as cheerful and full of life.
Here are some of the major controversies associated with Sidhu Moosewala:
1. AK-47 Gun Video Controversy
On May 4, 2020, two videos of Sidhu Moosewala went viral. In one, he was seen learning to fire an AK-47 with the help of five police officers. In another, he was shown using a personal gun. The videos sparked a massive outcry, leading to the suspension of six police personnel. Moosewala was also booked under the Arms Act for the incident.
2. ‘Sanju’ Song Controversy
In July 2020, after being granted bail, Sidhu Moosewala released a song titled Sanju, where he compared himself to actor Sanjay Dutt. The song highlighted the cases and FIRs against him, which he referred to as a “badge of honor,” causing considerable uproar.
3. Promotion of Khalistan in ‘Punjab’ Song
Later in 2020, Moosewala released a song titled Punjab that stirred another controversy. The song was accused of glorifying Khalistan supporter Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, leading to backlash from various quarters.
4. Calling Voters ‘Traitors’ in ‘Scapegoat’
In April 2022, Moosewala released the song Scapegoat, in which he lamented his defeat in the Punjab assembly elections. The Aam Aadmi Party claimed that he called the people of Punjab “traitors” in the lyrics, which led to yet another controversy.
5. Controversial Comment on Mai Bhago Ji
Sidhu Moosewala faced immense criticism when he allegedly made a disrespectful comment about Mai Bhago Ji in one of his songs. This deeply offended the Sikh community and prompted the Akal Takht to summon him. Moosewala later appeared before the Takht and publicly apologized.
Despite all these controversies, Sidhu Moosewala continued to enjoy a massive fan base. His death left many fans in shock, and incidents like the one in the London gurdwara highlight the ongoing debate over how his legacy should be remembered.
