Chandigarh: Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi has strongly objected to the reported move to appoint rapper Honey Singh as the brand ambassador for Punjab’s anti-drug awareness campaign, calling the decision inappropriate and questioning the message it sends to the state’s youth.
The criticism came after Honey Singh reportedly met senior BJP leader Tarun Chugh on Tuesday to discuss the issue of drug abuse in Punjab and possible awareness initiatives.
Reacting through a video message on social media, Jassi expressed concern over the choice, suggesting that individuals who had earlier been linked to promoting a culture associated with substance use should not be projected as symbols of reform.
Without directly naming Honey Singh’s past controversies, Jassi said those who had contributed to influencing Punjabi youth in the wrong direction could not now be projected as protectors or representatives of Punjab’s interests.
He described the move as an attempt that could provoke public sentiment in Punjab and said those based outside the state often fail to fully understand Punjab’s cultural and emotional identity.
“Punjab cannot be represented by just a popular face,” he said, adding that the state’s social and cultural fabric runs much deeper than celebrity recognition.
Jassi noted that he usually avoids political commentary but chose to speak because the matter concerns Punjab and its younger generation.
He also recalled interacting with Tarun Chugh in the past on matters concerning Punjab and urged political leaders to pay closer attention to public sentiment in the state.
The singer further remarked that silence should not be mistaken for weakness and claimed that many personalities being promoted in Punjab, whether political or otherwise, do not necessarily enjoy public support.
Referring to Punjab’s spiritual and cultural heritage, Jassi said values rooted in Sikhi and Gurbani remain deeply embedded in the identity of Punjabis across communities.
The controversy comes weeks after a BJP leader from Jalandhar reportedly filed a complaint with the state police chief over one of Honey Singh’s older songs, objecting to its visuals and content, including scenes featuring provocative dance performances and models in revealing attire.
The development has reignited debate over celebrity influence, cultural representation and the role public figures should play in social awareness campaigns aimed at tackling sensitive issues such as drug abuse in Punjab.
About Punjabi Mania Author
Editorial team at Punjabi Mania. Passionate about bringing the latest updates from the Punjabi entertainment industry directly to you.
Sign in with Google
Discussion 0
Join the Conversation
Share your thoughts, reply to others, and become part of the community.