Mohali: A social activist in Punjab has urged the state government and local administration to prevent Bollywood rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh from performing songs that allegedly promote obscenity, alcohol, drugs, and violence at the upcoming Filmfare Punjab event, scheduled for August 23, 2025, at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali.
The event is expected to feature several prominent Punjabi singers and actors alongside Honey Singh.
Dr. Panditrao Dharenawar, a public interest litigant, has formally requested that the event organizers submit an affidavit by August 20, ensuring that no songs with harmful societal impacts will be performed. He warned that failure to comply could lead to a contempt petition.
Dr Dharenawar cited a prior notice issued by the Punjab Women’s Commission to Honey Singh over his song 'Millionaire', which allegedly disrespects women. He noted that the rapper has yet to appear before the commission.
Highlighting specific tracks like 'Char Bottle Vodka', 'Manali Trance', 'Breakup Party', 'One Bottle Down', 'Main Sharabi', 'Maniac', 'Makhna', and 'Millionaire', Dr. Dharenawar argued that these songs glorify substance abuse and objectify women, negatively influencing youth and contributing to crime and addiction in society.
Referring to a Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling on a previous petition he filed, Dr Dharenawar emphasized that the court had acknowledged the adverse effects of songs promoting alcohol, drugs, and violence on young minds.
The court had directed the directors general of police in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh to ensure such content was not performed at live events.
Dr Dharenawar has demanded that the district administration obtain a written affidavit from the event organizers, guaranteeing that no songs promoting substance abuse, violence, or obscenity will be performed.
He also requested a copy of the affidavit to ensure legal accountability in case of non-compliance.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate about the influence of music on societal values, with calls for stricter oversight of public performances.
