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The image showcased Dhillon wearing multicolored shoes that some critics claimed resembled the revered tricolor of the Indian flag.
Updated : Aug 16, 2023, 08:44 AM IST | Edited by : Mahipal Singh Chouhan
Rapper AP Dhillon has emerged as a prevailing sensation among today's youth. The Punjabi artist has effectively captured the hearts of many, garnering a substantial and dedicated fan following, largely attributable to his string of chart-topping hits. Hailing from a Punjabi-Canadian background, AP Dhillon recently found himself entangled in a web of controversy stemming from a promotional effort for his new song, "With You," featuring Banita Sandhu. The imagery shared depicted Dhillon adorned in a pair of multicolored shoes, which certain keen-eyed observers claimed bore a striking resemblance to the revered tricolor of the Indian flag. This perception triggered a cascade of criticism, with critics vehemently accusing Dhillon of exhibiting a grave lack of regard for the sanctity of the national flag.
Initially aimed at promoting his music, the video that Dhillon posted on Instagram underwent an unexpected transformation, drawing widespread attention to his choice of footwear rather than the song itself. Confronted with an overwhelming barrage of disapproval, Dhillon ultimately made the decision to remove the contentious post from his social media account.
He is a popular Punjabi singer AP Dhillon.
— Sunanda Roy @SaffronSunanda) August 14, 2023
Just before 15 August, he is flaunting his shoes on Instagram.
Check the colour of his shoes.
Is he deliberately insulting our tricolour ?
Is he one of those Khalistan supporters like Sidhu Moosewala?
I am not sure but I find this… pic.twitter.com/RYfvw3fumO
Among the myriad reactions that swiftly surfaced, some questioned whether Dhillon's actions were deliberate, interpreting the display of his footwear as an intentional affront, particularly due to its proximity to Independence Day celebrations. Meanwhile, others expressed their disillusionment and disgust at his behavior, lamenting the apparent disregard for national symbols and the implications of his actions.
A chorus of voices from the digital realm echoed these sentiments, denouncing the artist's actions and demanding accountability for what they perceived as a grave transgression. Commenting on the contentious images, one individual vented, "I am genuinely furious because of this... utterly let down," while another observer lamented, "I'm not interested in celebrity dating or their fashion choices, but merely for the sake of looking trendy, individuals like these blatantly disrespect the national flag by incorporating its tricolor onto their shoes."