Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has broken his silence on a recent controversy surrounding his use of the spelling ‘Panjab’ instead of ‘Punjab’ in a tweet about a concert in Chandigarh.

The backlash began after several netizens pointed out that ‘Panjab’ is often associated with the Pakistani side of the historical Punjab region, sparking accusations of political motives. A section of users questioned why Diljit, a prominent Indian artiste, chose this spelling and speculated about his intent in omitting the national flag emoji from that particular post.

Diljit addressed the controversy in a strongly-worded statement on X, where he clarified his stance and condemned the narrative being built around his actions. He posted the word ‘Punjab’ in Gurmukhi script (ਪੰਜਾਬ) and explained the historical and linguistic context of the spelling: “Panj Aab - meaning Five Rivers. Whether you write it as Panjab or Punjab, it will always remain ਪੰਜਾਬ.”

Calling out the allegations of conspiracy, he added, “If the tricolour is missed once while mentioning Punjab in a tweet, it’s called a conspiracy. Even in a tweet about Bengaluru, it was missed once. To those making conspiracies about English spellings from the language of foreigners — well done! I’ll start writing in Punjabi in the future...ਪੰਜਾਬ”.

Diljit also took aim at his detractors, asserting that his love for India has always been unwavering. He wrote, “I know you won’t stop. Keep going! How many times should we prove that...We LOVE INDIA. Come up with something new, guys.”

Diljit is currently in the final leg of his Dil-Luminati India tour, with a performance scheduled in Mumbai on December 19. The tour will conclude on December 29 with a grand finale in Guwahati.