Diljit Dosanjh, amid Bajrang Dal protests calling for the cancellation of his Indore concert, invoked Rahat Indori’s powerful lines “Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai,” to send a message of unity and defiance. This blog explores the deeper meaning of his tribute and the ongoing struggle for artistic freedom in India.
The Controversy Surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s Indore Concert
On December 8, 2024, the Bajrang Dal initiated a protest in Indore, demanding the cancellation of Diljit Dosanjh’s concert. Their objection centered around the artist’s perceived ideological stance. Though the exact reasons for the protest remain vague, it added to the long list of incidents where entertainers have been targeted for their personal beliefs or public performances.
Despite these external pressures, Dosanjh remained undeterred, opting to stand firm in the face of adversity. His response not only addressed the controversy but also reaffirmed his commitment to free expression and artistic integrity.
A Tribute to Rahat Indori: Diljit’s Defiant Stand
During his concert, Dosanjh honored the memory of Rahat Indori, a famous poet from Indore, who passed away in 2020. He chose to recite Indori’s most famous ghazal:
“Agar khilaaf hain hone do, jaan thodi hai.
Ye sab dhua hai, asmaan thodi hai.
Sabhi ka khoon hai shaamil yahan ki mitti mein,
Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai.”
These words, which roughly translate to “Hindustan is not anyone’s property,” became a rallying cry for Dosanjh as he invoked them to highlight the unity and inclusivity of India.
The Power of Rahat Indori’s Words
Rahat Indori’s poetry has always been a voice for the marginalized, and his iconic verse “Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai” speaks to the idea that the country belongs to all its people, regardless of their backgrounds. In today’s India, where ideological divides are widening, this line serves as a potent reminder of the shared sacrifices that have built the nation.
By quoting Indori’s work, Dosanjh not only honored a beloved poet but also emphasized the importance of a unified India, free from sectarian conflicts. His tribute underscored the need to reject any ideology that seeks to divide or exclude sections of the population.
Public Reaction: Support and Criticism
The tribute to Rahat Indori sparked an outpouring of support from Dosanjh’s fans, with social media platforms flooded with admiration for the artist’s bold stand. The hashtag #DiljitForUnity trended as users expressed their solidarity with Dosanjh’s message of unity and tolerance.
However, the protests also attracted criticism, with some accusing Dosanjh of being politically motivated. Despite this, the overwhelming support for the singer’s stance emphasized the public’s desire to see more voices like his challenging intolerance and standing up for freedom of expression.
Diljit Dosanjh’s tribute to Rahat Indori during his Indore concert was a powerful act of defiance against censorship and division. By quoting “Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai,” Dosanjh reaffirmed the idea that India belongs to everyone, irrespective of their religion or beliefs.
This incident highlights the importance of protecting artistic freedom and diversity in India. As the country continues to face ideological challenges, artists like Diljit Dosanjh serve as vital voices, reminding us that art, music, and poetry can bring people together and challenge the forces that seek to divide us.
