Shillong, September 22: Canada-based Punjabi singer Shubh, who recently had his shows in India canceled due to his support for Khalistani groups and sharing a distorted map of India, expressed his sentiments in an Instagram post.
IANS reported that in his Instagram post, Shubh stated, “India is my country too. I was born here. It is the land of my Gurus and my ancestors.” He has faced criticism for his alleged sympathies with Khalistani elements, leading to the cancellation of his Mumbai concert.
Shubh, in his social media message, conveyed his disappointment with the turn of events, saying, “As a young rapper-singer hailing from Punjab, India, it was my life’s dream to put my music on an international dais. But the recent happenings have tumbled my hard work and progress, and I wanted to say a few words to express my dismay and sorrow. I’m extremely disheartened by the cancellation of my tour in India.”
He continued, “I was highly amped up and enthusiastic to perform in my country, in front of my people. The preparations were in full swing, and I was practicing with my heart and soul for the last two months. And I was very excited, happy, and ready to perform. But I guess destiny had some other plans.”
Shubh also appealed to the public not to label every Punjabi as a separatist or anti-national, emphasizing his deep connection to India and Punjab. He said, “India is MY country too. I was born here. It is the land of my GURUS and my ANCESTORS, who didn’t even blink an eye to make sacrifices for the freedom of this land, for its glory, and for the family. And Punjab is my soul, Punjab is in my blood. Whatever I am today, I am because of being a Punjabi. Punjabis do not need to give proof of patriotism. At every turn in history, Punjabis have sacrificed their lives for the freedom of this country. That’s why it’s my humble request to refrain from naming every Punjabi as a separatist or anti-national.”
Shubh also clarified his intention behind sharing the Instagram story that led to the controversy, stating, “My intent in resharing that post on my story was only to Pray for Punjab as there were reports of electricity and internet shutdowns throughout the state. There was no other thought behind it, and I definitely didn’t intend to hurt anyone’s sentiments.”
He concluded his message with a note of resilience, saying, “The accusations against me have deeply affected me. But as my guru has taught me ‘Manas Ki Jaat Sabai Ekai Pachanbo’ (All the human beings recognized as one and same) and taught me not to be afraid, not to be intimidated which is the origin of Punjabiyat. I will continue to work hard. My team and I will be back soon, bigger and stronger together. WAHEGURU MEHAR KARE SARBAT DA BHALA A.”