Hyderabad concert: Telangana asks Diljit Dosanjh to avoid songs that promote drugs, alcohol

Hyderabad: Telangana government has sent advance notice to actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh and Dil-Luminati organizers asking them to avoid songs that promote alcohol, drugs, or violence.

The guidelines were issued by the Department of Welfare of Women, Children, Disabled, and Senior Citizens of Rangareddy District, in response to concerns over Dosanjh ‘Dil-Luminati’ tour.

Diljit is set to perform in Hyderabads GMR arena on Nov 15.

The notice, prompted by a formal complaint from Panditrao Dharenavar, a resident of Chandigarh, also prohibits the use of children on stage at the event. Dharenavar’s complaint included video evidence of Dosanjh allegedly singing songs promoting alcohol and drug culture at a recent concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.

Restricting Content and Performances

The notice specifically refers to songs such as “Panchatara,” “Patiala Pegg,” and “CASE,” which the complainant alleges promote substance use and violence. It mandates that Dosanjh avoid these or similar songs during his performance in Hyderabad.

“We hereby in advance issue notice to you for not using children on stage during the live show… and not to allow singer Daljit Dosanjh to sing alcohol/drug/violence promoting songs,” the document reads.

Child Safety Concerns

Sound and lighting levels at concerts were also flagged in the notice. The World Health Organization advises that sound exposure should not exceed 120 decibels for children, and the notice emphasizes the potential harm from loud sounds and flashing lights commonly used at live performances.

“Concert guidelines say that children are allowed below 13 years of age. Concert guidelines also say that concert may include loud sounds and flashing lights. Both loud music and flashing lights are harmful to children,” states the District Welfare Officer.

Emphasis on Community Standards

The government’s directive highlights the responsibility of artists and event organizers to adhere to community standards, particularly with minors in attendance.

By implementing these restrictions, authorities aim to reinforce the importance of public health and responsible content in live performances.