Impact of India-Canada tensions on Punjabi hip-hop stars

The tensions between India and Canada have had a significant impact on Punjabi hip-hop stars, causing cancellations, boycott calls, and criticism. The controversy originated from a social media post in which popular Punjabi rapper Shubhneet Singh shared an incorrect map of India, leading to accusations of supporting the demand for Khalistan. Canada has a large Sikh population and is home to many Punjabi diaspora musicians who divide their time between the two countries. The diplomatic row, fueled by allegations linking the Indian government to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader, has left musicians worried. The cancellation of Shubh’s India tour and the subsequent backlash faced by him and other artists highlight the delicate nature of the issue. The consequences of the tensions between India and Canada extend beyond the music industry, as cultural collaborations between Indian and Pakistani musicians and filmmakers have also ceased in recent years due to political conflicts. However, some argue that the Punjabi music industry is too massive to be significantly affected by political disputes, emphasizing that listeners only care about the quality of the music. The popularity of Punjabi hip-hop has been on the rise, with Punjabi songs ranking high on music charts in India. The genre itself is a fusion of modern hip-hop sounds and traditional Punjabi elements, often addressing political issues and reflecting on the community’s identity and experiences. However, critics have accused certain Punjabi musicians of promoting violence and hedonism in their songs. The use of hip-hop as a medium of resistance and social commentary is not unique to Punjabi hip-hop but has been observed in Black American hip-hop as well. For Punjabi immigrants and their children living in Canada, music becomes a way to express their experiences of racism and discrimination while also highlighting their heritage and culture. The confrontational nature of Punjabi hip-hop may seem provocative to outsiders, but it serves as a unifying force for Punjabis who have been distanced from their homeland. However, the incendiary content in some songs may also stem from the alienation and vulnerability that young Punjabis face in a foreign country. Hip-hop musicians find themselves in a difficult position as their personal lives and professional careers intersect. It is crucial for artists to be sensitive to political issues during times of high tensions, as rationality is often suspended, and people can be easily provoked. While the tensions between India and Canada have shaken the Punjabi hip-hop industry, its resilience and popularity suggest that it will continue to thrive despite political obstacles.