Diljit Dosanjh denies controversy over banners at show
Diljit Dosanjh has addressed the controversy over banners and flags at his recent concerts, saying his issue was not with any flag itself but with disruptive behaviour at his shows. The Punjabi star clarified that he acted to protect the concert environment and his fans.The issue arose after a May concert in Calgary, where he stopped his performance to ask individuals waving pro-Khalistan flags to leave the venue, saying the space should be used for its intended purpose. He later stated that any banners or flags are acceptable as long as they are not used to harass or disrupt the audience. In a social media statement, Dosanjh rejected what he called “fake narratives,” stressing that he would not tolerate anyone disturbing his shows. He also said security would remove anyone attempting to disrupt performances, emphasising “love and peace” while defending his actions. (IANS)
Vedang Raina drops soulful version of Maskara
Vedang Raina shared a soulful rendition of the song Maskara from Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga on Instagram, delighting fans ahead of the movie’s release. The actor, who plays a key role in the romantic drama, posted a video from London where he is seen singing and playing guitar under a tree. He expressed excitement for fans to create their own versions of the song. Vedang also shared behind-the-scenes moments highlighting his chemistry with co-star Sharvari and thanked director Imtiaz Ali, composer A.R. Rahman, and lyricist Irshad Kamil for the opportunity. The film, starring Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari, and Naseeruddin Shah, releases on June 12. (IANS)
Red Hot Chili Peppers close $300mn catalogue sale deal
Red Hot Chili Peppers have sold their full recorded music catalogue to Warner Music Group for about $300 million, according to reports. The deal includes all 13 studio albums and decades of hit songs that continue to generate strong streaming revenue, estimated at around $26 million annually. The agreement follows frontman Anthony Kiedis regaining control of the recordings and seeking a higher valuation, though the final deal fell short of the reported $350 million asking price. Warner Music, which originally released several of the band’s biggest albums like Blood Sugar Sex Magik and Californication, secured the rights. This sale is separate from their 2015 publishing rights deal with Hipgnosis. Meanwhile, the band is also working on new music following their 2022 albums, with bassist Flea confirming ongoing studio sessions with guitarist John Frusciante. (IANS)
Benedict Cumberbatch involved in heated row with cyclist
Benedict Cumberbatch was reportedly involved in a heated verbal exchange with a cyclist in London over an alleged traffic violation, according to Page Six. A viral video shows the actor stepping off his bike and confronting the cyclist, who accused him of running a red light. The cyclist claimed Cumberbatch had broken traffic rules multiple times, while the actor denied the allegations and said he had only done so once. The argument lasted around 10 minutes before the cyclist left the scene. Onlookers described the incident as a “road rage” confrontation, though Cumberbatch later interacted calmly with fans nearby. The actor is next set to appear in Blood on Snow, a crime thriller directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Eva Green. (ANI)
