In a strong move against rising vulgarity in Punjabi music, the Punjab State Women Commission has taken suo motu notice of two trending songs—Karan Aujla’s “MF Gabru” and Yo Yo Honey Singh’s “Millionaire.” The action marks a significant escalation in the Karan Aujla MF Gabru controversy, which has sparked debate over obscenity in mainstream music. On 7 August 2025, the Commission issued formal notices to senior police officials in Chandigarh, seeking a detailed action-taken report by 11:00 AM on 11 August. The directive, citing Section 12 of the Punjab State Women Commission Act, 2001, warns that objectionable lyrics damaging women’s dignity won’t be tolerated under the pretext of art.
Who Is Dr. Pandit Rao Dharennavar?
At the heart of this controversy is Dr. Pandit Rao Dharennavar, a professor and social activist based in Chandigarh. Originally from Karnataka, he is known for translating Sikh scriptures into Kannada and for launching campaigns against Punjabi songs that glorify alcohol, violence, or obscenity. Over the years, he has gained recognition as a one-man watchdog advocating for morally responsible music content.
What the Complaint Says About These Two Songs
In his latest representation to the Commission, Dr. Dharennavar flagged explicit and derogatory content in both songs. In “MF Gabru,” he cited repeated profanity and abusive language aimed at women. In “Millionaire,” he pointed to lyrics that objectify women and glamorize materialism and lust. He argued that both tracks spread harmful narratives to young listeners. Responding to his claims, the Women Commission took cognizance and launched an inquiry, ordering police to file a compliance report by 11 August 2025.
Past Complaints: Moosewala, Diljit & More
Dr. Dharennavar has a history of holding Punjabi singers accountable:
- In April 2019, he petitioned the Punjab and Haryana High Court against Sidhu Moosewala, seeking a ban on gun-glorifying lyrics.
- In March 2020, his complaint led to an FIR against Sippy Gill for the violent themes in “Gundagardi.”
- In December 2024, he filed a plea before Diljit Dosanjh’s concert in Ludhiana, objecting to alcohol-themed songs like “Patiala Peg,” prompting an official government notice.
With the Karan Aujla MF Gabru controversy now gaining momentum, the debate over Punjabi music’s moral direction is back in focus.
Also Read: Punjabi Singer Arrested After 9 Years on the Run by NCB
FAQ
Q1. Why did the Women Commission act on these songs?
Because lyrics in MF Gabru and Millionaire were flagged as vulgar, abusive, and disrespectful to women.
Q2. Who filed the complaint?
Dr. Pandit Rao Dharennavar, a Chandigarh-based activist and professor known for fighting vulgarity in Punjabi music.
Q3. What’s the issue with MF Gabru?
The song uses repeated profanity and slurs that the complainant claims degrade women.
Q4. What’s wrong with Honey Singh’s Millionaire?
It allegedly objectifies women and promotes materialism in a sexually suggestive way.
Q5. Has Dr. Dharennavar filed such complaints before?
Yes—against Sidhu Moosewala (gun lyrics), Diljit Dosanjh (alcohol songs), and Sippy Gill (violence).
Q6. What’s the Commission demanding now?
A full police report by 11 August 2025, to decide possible action or legal steps.
Q7. Will the songs be banned?
Too early to say—depends on the report and legal findings.
