New Delhi: Hours after shots were fired outside Punjabi singer AP Dhillon’s Canada residence in Vancouver, the singer took to his Instagram handle, assuring fans that he and his loved ones were safe. According to unconfirmed sources, the responsibility for the incident has been claimed by notorious gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara, who are currently behind bars and have been known to operate their gang’s activities from prison, a disturbing reality that highlights the influence and reach of these criminal networks. The gang has been involved in various criminal activities, including extortion and targeted attacks, often directed at high-profile individuals.
The incident has drawn significant attention, especially since the singer featured Bollywood icons Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt in his latest music video, “Old Money.” The video was released on August 9, 2024, and quickly gained traction due to its high-energy blend of action and a powerful message calling for peace.
Since its release, “Old Money” has garnered millions of views on YouTube, reflecting its popularity and the star power of its cast. The collaboration between AP Dhillon, Salman Khan, and Sanjay Dutt marks a significant moment in the music industry, blending Punjabi music with Bollywood’s star appeal.
Amidst the turmoil following the gunfire incident, AP Dhillon took to Instagram to assure his fans of his safety. He emphasized the importance of peace and urged his followers to keep spreading love. The incident has also sparked discussions about the connections between the entertainment industry and the underworld that have come to light in the following years.
While the specific details of the incident remain under investigation, a video has surfaced online showing a man standing outside a house and firing multiple shots. The video, although widely circulated, has not been independently verified by credible sources such as Hindustan Times. However, it has added to the growing unease among fans and the general public.
In the wake of the shooting, AP Dhillon’s response has been one of calm reassurance. On Tuesday, the Punjab-born singer, who has made Canada his home for several years, took to Instagram Stories to address the concerns of his fans. In his message, he stated, “I’m safe. My people are safe. Thank you to everyone who reached out. Your support means everything.” The message was accompanied by a folded hands emoji, a symbol of gratitude and humility that resonated deeply with his followers.
This brief but powerful statement was not the only way AP Dhillon chose to address the incident. Around the same time, he shared a video of himself jamming to his song “Sweet Flower” on Instagram Reels. In the caption, he wrote, “Keep spreading love,” a sentiment that has become synonymous with his music and public persona. The video quickly garnered attention, with fans flooding the comments section with messages of relief and support.
The response from fans also highlights the growing concern over the safety of artists who, despite their fame, remain vulnerable to external threats. The shooting incident has served as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with fame, particularly in an era where social media has made public figures more accessible—and more exposed—than ever before.
The shooting outside AP Dhillon’s home is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend of violence and threats faced by celebrities, especially those of South Asian origin. The entertainment industry, particularly in India and its diaspora, has long been entangled with issues of security, with artists often finding themselves in the crosshairs of criminal elements.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of threats and attacks directed at musicians, actors, and other public figures. These incidents often stem from a complex mix of jealousy, extortion demands, and, as in the case of AP Dhillon, associations with other high-profile individuals. The involvement of gangsters like Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara in such incidents is particularly troubling, as it indicates a level of organized crime that transcends national borders.
Despite the frightening nature of the recent incident, AP Dhillon’s response has been one of resilience and positivity. His decision to address the situation directly, rather than retreating from the public eye, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to his fans. As AP Dhillon continues to create and share his music with the world, his fans can take solace in knowing that their favorite artist is safe—and that he remains as committed as ever to spreading love and positivity through his art.
