Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh, known for his humility and global appeal, recently appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati 17, where he engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Amitabh Bachchan about his childhood, struggles, and the devastating Punjab floods. The singer-actor’s sincerity and warmth deeply resonated with audiences — especially when he was seen touching Bachchan’s feet as a mark of respect.
However, soon after the episode aired, Diljit faced a Khalistani threat from the banned terror outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Its chief, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, accused him of “insulting the victims of the 1984 Sikh Genocide” by bowing before Amitabh Bachchan — allegations the veteran actor has long denied. Responding to the threats, Diljit took to Instagram and posted a message in Punjabi: “Na mai kisey film di promotion lai geya c, na kisey ganey di promotion lai. Punjab floods lai geya c… ke national level te gal hove, te loki donate kar sakan.” (I hadn’t gone there to promote any film or song. I went to talk about the Punjab floods so that the issue could reach a national platform and people could donate.)
On the KBC stage, Diljit spoke movingly about the floods that ravaged parts of Punjab. “Sir, what happened this time isn’t new — it keeps happening,” he told Bachchan. “I’m grateful that you and the channel discussed this because it rarely gets national attention. Punjab is wounded right now, but it will rise on its feet again.”
Reflecting on his childhood, Diljit recalled being sent to his maternal uncle’s house without being consulted. “I was 10 or 11, and my parents didn’t even ask me — that hurt,” he shared. “There were no phones then, so I would meet them after months.” He also reminisced about watching Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra’s action films on Doordarshan, saying, “When your films came on TV, sir, I was thrilled. Rajesh Khanna’s films made me sad — too emotional for a kid who just wanted fights and action!”
Speaking of his father, a government roadways ticket checker, Diljit remembered his simplicity. “He was like a saint,” he said fondly. “He told me, ‘You’ll have food and a roof — everything else you must earn yourself.’ That stayed with me.”
Recounting his humble beginnings, Diljit shared, “My first show was a birthday party after my debut album. I earned ₹2,000, and it felt amazing. God has been kind since.”