Latest news with #Punjabi-language
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Neeru Bajwa unfollows 'Sardaar Ji' co-star Hania
As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, the cultural fallout has reached the film industry once again - this time with Canadian-Indian actor Neeru Bajwa reportedly unfollowing Pakistani co-star Hania Aamir on Instagram. Reddit and Instagram accounts first observed Hania missing from Neeru's following list. Neeru further appears to have removed all promotional content related to their film Sardaar Ji 3, just hours ahead of its international release on Friday. The Punjabi-language horror-comedy, also starring Diljit Dosanjh, has found itself at the centre of a political and cultural storm. While no official comment has been made by either Neeru or Hania, the move is being widely interpreted as a response to growing criticism in India over the Pakistani actor's inclusion in the film. Industry insiders say the backlash stems from the participation of a Pakistani actress in an Indian production, amid renewed nationalist fervour and diplomatic hostilities following a deadly attack in Pahalgam earlier this year. The criticism, largely driven by right-wing online voices, accused Neeru of "undermining national sentiment" for collaborating with Hania. Gunbir Singh Sidhu, the film's producer, confirmed the decision not to release the film in India was made out of caution rather than compulsion. "There was no restriction from the Government of India or any other institution," Sidhu told reporters. "But given the sensitivity of the situation, we refrained from releasing the trailer in India or organising any promotions." The Film Federation of Western Indian Cinema (FWIC) has gone a step further, calling on the government to revoke Diljit's passport due to his continued association with the project. The statement has sparked criticism from several artists and civil society organisations, who argue the move infringes upon artistic expression and freedom of work. Despite the mounting controversy, Sardaar Ji 3, directed by Amar Hundal, remains set for an extensive international rollout, including screenings in Pakistan, the UK, and Canada - regions with large Punjabi-speaking diaspora populations. The film also marks Hania's debut in Indian Punjabi cinema. In a recent interview with Haroon Rashid on the BBC Asian Network, Diljit had nothing but warm words for the professionalism displayed by Hania on set as the pair worked together in the film. "My experience with Hania was very good," stated Diljit in a short but sweet commendation. "She was professional when we were working. We didn't have that much time together, though." "When this film was being made, the [political] situation was fine," mused the actor-singer, adopting the sanguine, accepting tone of one picking their battles. "When we shot this film in February, everything was fine. But a lot of big things are not in our hands."
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Shubh becomes second Indian artiste to land Billboard Canada cover, announces arena tour
@shubhworldwide Punjabi artist Shubh has become the second Indian musician, after Diljit Dosanjh , to appear solo on the cover of Billboard Canada . The recognition reflects the expanding global presence of Punjabi-language music, particularly from independent voices emerging from the diaspora. The milestone coincides with the announcement of Shubh's debut North American arena tour, set to begin on August 22 at Oakland Arena. The tour includes stops at Rogers Arena in Vancouver (August 23), Scotiabank Arena in Toronto (September 5), and wraps up at the Prudential Center in New Jersey (September 7). Opting for arena venues in his first international tour signals growing demand for his music beyond the South Asian community. Shubh's second studio album Sicario , released earlier this year, debuted at No. 24 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart and has crossed 250 million streams across platforms. The 10-track project blends Punjabi lyricism with contemporary hip-hop production, covering a range of sonic moods from hard-hitting anthems to melodic tracks. His follow-up single Supreme debuted on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 and topped Apple Music charts in both India and Canada, while maintaining over one million daily Spotify streams. Operating independently without a record label or paid marketing, Shubh has built a global fanbase from the ground up. According to his management, the growth has been entirely organic, driven by consistent streaming and word-of-mouth traction. Shubh's entry into music began as a personal exercise in songwriting during his years as a student in Canada. He continues to rely on handwritten lyrics and extensive self-editing before releasing music. His performances are fully live, featuring a complete band and no backing tracks—a rarity in the current live music circuit. His discography includes high-streaming tracks like We Rollin , Baller , and One Love , the latter crossing 400 million streams on Spotify without a music video. He is currently working on new material and has indicated future experiments with rock and other genres, while also planning larger-scale productions for future tours. With over 3 billion total streams and a global audience spanning beyond the diaspora, Shubh's rise marks a significant chapter for independent Punjabi musicians in the international music landscape.
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Shubh cecomes second Indian artiste to land Billboard Canada cover, announces arena tour
@shubhworldwide Punjabi artist Shubh has become the second Indian musician, after Diljit Dosanjh , to appear solo on the cover of Billboard Canada . The recognition reflects the expanding global presence of Punjabi-language music, particularly from independent voices emerging from the diaspora. The milestone coincides with the announcement of Shubh's debut North American arena tour, set to begin on August 22 at Oakland Arena. The tour includes stops at Rogers Arena in Vancouver (August 23), Scotiabank Arena in Toronto (September 5), and wraps up at the Prudential Center in New Jersey (September 7). Opting for arena venues in his first international tour signals growing demand for his music beyond the South Asian community. Shubh's second studio album Sicario , released earlier this year, debuted at No. 24 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart and has crossed 250 million streams across platforms. The 10-track project blends Punjabi lyricism with contemporary hip-hop production, covering a range of sonic moods from hard-hitting anthems to melodic tracks. His follow-up single Supreme debuted on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 and topped Apple Music charts in both India and Canada, while maintaining over one million daily Spotify streams. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning... Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Click Here Undo Operating independently without a record label or paid marketing, Shubh has built a global fanbase from the ground up. According to his management, the growth has been entirely organic, driven by consistent streaming and word-of-mouth traction. Shubh's entry into music began as a personal exercise in songwriting during his years as a student in Canada. He continues to rely on handwritten lyrics and extensive self-editing before releasing music. His performances are fully live, featuring a complete band and no backing tracks—a rarity in the current live music circuit. His discography includes high-streaming tracks like We Rollin , Baller , and One Love , the latter crossing 400 million streams on Spotify without a music video. He is currently working on new material and has indicated future experiments with rock and other genres, while also planning larger-scale productions for future tours. With over 3 billion total streams and a global audience spanning beyond the diaspora, Shubh's rise marks a significant chapter for independent Punjabi musicians in the international music landscape.
Hamilton Spectator
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Guru Nanak's Jahaz Film Brings Historical Depth to Halton, Highlighting the 1914 Komagata Maru Incident
As Asian Heritage Month wrapped up in Halton Region, one cinematic release stood out for its historical resonance and emotional impact. The Punjabi-language film Guru Nanak's Jahaz, directed by Sharan Art, premiered in cinemas across the region and the Greater Toronto Area following its worldwide release on May 1. The historical drama, funded in part by the Canadian government, explores the 1914 Komagata Maru incident, a key moment in Canada's immigration history, through the lens of Sikh faith, resilience, and the struggle for justice. The film struck a chord with South Asian communities in Milton, Oakville, Burlington, and surrounding areas. Local screenings drew large audiences and sparked conversations about identity, inclusion, and Canada's complex past. 'I had read about the Komagata Maru in school, but seeing it portrayed on screen with such depth and emotion gave me chills,' said Rajdeep Sandhu, a third-generation Canadian whose great-grandparents immigrated from Punjab. 'This movie reminded me of the courage it took for our elders to fight for the right to simply be treated as human beings.' On May 23, 1914, the Guru Nanak Jahaz steamship arrived in Vancouver's Burrard Inlet, carrying 376 passengers—340 Sikhs, 24 Muslims, and 12 Hindus, primarily from the Punjab region of India. Seeking better opportunities in Canada, they were instead met with exclusion. Despite being British subjects, they were denied entry due to discriminatory immigration laws. Confined to the ship without adequate food, water, or medical care, the passengers endured harsh conditions for two months. On July 23, 1914, the ship was ordered to turn back, forcing the passengers to return to India. Tragically, upon arrival, 19 were killed by gunfire, and many others were injured or imprisoned, branded as political agitators. The film uses historical records, personal accounts, and cultural insight to depict the voyage and its aftermath, bringing a little-known story to wider audiences. Ayesha Malik, a Milton resident originally from Pakistan, brought her two teenage children to one of the screenings. 'As a South Asian Muslim woman, I found this film incredibly unifying,' she said. 'The story transcends religious boundaries—it's about a shared struggle for dignity. Watching it with my children during Asian Heritage Month felt like an important way to honour our collective history in Canada.' The screenings were part of a broader month-long celebration across Halton, which included cultural exhibits, storytelling initiatives, and panel discussions. One such event, held in Oakville following a screening of Guru Nanak's Jahaz, featured educators and historians reflecting on the impact of historical immigration policies and their lasting legacy. 'This movie helped me see my grandparents' journey in a new light,' said Sanjay Krishnan, a young professional from Oakville. 'They arrived in the '70s, decades after the Komagata Maru, but the themes of exclusion, hope, and resilience are the same.' For many, the film was not only a tribute to the past but also a reminder of the work still required to build inclusive communities. 'We need more projects like this—especially ones that are accessible to young people,' said Shama Bano, one of the founding members of the Desi Moms group in Milton. 'It brings context and meaning to why we celebrate Asian Heritage Month, and why representation matters in our cultural storytelling.' The Canadian government's involvement in funding the film highlights the country's commitment to preserving and sharing stories of South Asian heritage. This support allowed the filmmakers to create a project that reaches both local and international audiences, shedding light on an important chapter of Canada's history. As Guru Nanak's Jahaz continues its theatrical run, including strong box office numbers in India, it has emerged as one of the most successful Punjabi-language films of 2025. For audiences in Halton Region, its impact extended beyond entertainment, offering a powerful lens through which to reflect on shared histories and future aspirations. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
CBC
16-04-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Lawn signs, local forums — how candidates communicate with voters
The federal election campaign is past the halfway point, with election day less than two weeks away. But while many voters will watch the party leaders' debates tonight and tomorrow, they will ultimately cast a ballot for a local candidate. While campaign lawn signs featuring candidates' names are in full bloom, local debates are few and far between this election. Are these long-standing practices still relevant in the social media age? "I'm a firm believer that election signs are doing a public service," said Alex Marland, a political scientist and professor at Acadia University. "When it comes to debates, that's a totally other affair." Fewer debates a common trend Only a few Edmonton-area ridings have debates or multi-candidate forums scheduled. My Radio 580 held a Punjabi-language radio debate on April 11, featuring three candidates from Edmonton Southeast — Conservative Jagsharan Singh Mahal, NDP candidate Harpreet Grewal and Liberal candidate (and current Edmonton mayor) Amarjeet Sohi. In St. Albert-Sturgeon River, all five candidates in that riding participated in an election forum on April 2. In the riding of Edmonton Centre, a debate organized by the Wîhkwêntôwin Community League is taking place Wednesday. All 10 candidates running in the riding were invited, and nine have confirmed attendance, with the exception of Conservative candidate Sayid Ahmed. Colten Bishop, the events manager for the community league, said the campaign told organizers that it was committed to door knocking and unable to attend. "And we respect their decision," he said. Based on the RSVPs for the free event, Bishop said they're expecting close to a capacity crowd of 200. That enthusiasm was also apparent in the responses from the campaigns that confirmed. "They were very quick to respond," said Bishop. "We've even had candidates that have had to shift their schedules around quite significantly so they could be a part of this." The diminishing importance of local debates of forums is a trend playing out beyond Alberta, according to Marland. Debates are "adversarial by nature," and candidates might be wary of getting ganged up on — particularly incumbents. "And in an age of social media and people having smartphones, the risk is very high of them saying something or a controversy emerging that is going to damage their prospects," said Marland. By contrast, he said the leaders' debates are a "focusing event — they are the time when most people start really paying attention to the campaign." A 'low cost' form of communication Election signs, however, are still a useful tool. At a minimum, they make sure that even people who might not follow the news are aware an election is taking place. John Pracejus, a marketing professor at the University of Alberta, said campaign signs can help increase awareness of a local candidate's name. They can also have a "bandwagon" effect — making it seem like a candidate is so popular, they must be worth considering voting for. Partisan signs can be a target of theft or vandalism during election campaigns. Nevertheless, Pracejus said they offer considerable value for money in terms of messaging. Outdoor signs "are actually a relatively low cost way of communicating simple messages, and I don't think that's changed," he said. "I think the impact of digital outlets and the digital platforms like Meta and Google have really largely been on radio, television, newspapers, magazines, things like that that really don't have a very big chunk of consumer attention anymore." Not only do physical signs avoid any algorithmic manipulation by social media platforms, they also cut through individualized silos of media consumption — one of the few mediums that can still do so in the digital age, noted Pracejus. Those polarized echo chambers are also Marland believes voters are not well served by adversarial local debates. "What should be happening at the local level is people should be talking about town halls, they should be talking about meet-the-candidate events — things not involving aggression [or] polarization, but instead, encourage meeting people and having good conversations."
