Dilshad Akhtar

Dilshad Akhtar (born 1965, Giljewala, Sri Muktsar Sahib District, Punjab, India – died January 28, 1996, Singhpura, Gurdaspur District, Punjab, India) was a renowned Punjabi folk singer. He was known for his powerful voice and contributions to Punjabi music, particularly in the Folk and Religious (Dharmik) genres. Akhtar gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, releasing numerous hit songs that remain influential in Punjabi music today, such as “Mann Vich Vasnai, Kala Ghagra Soof Da, Mela Do Din Da, Kanu Atthru Bahaundi”, and many more. Akhtar was also known for his Religious songs, which represented the Sikh struggle during the 80s and 90s, as well as older times throughout history. He was one of the only singers who had spoken about the Sikh struggle and the Jhujaru (Sikh Warrior) movement. Tragically, on January 28th, 1996, Akhtar was shot and killed in Punjab by a drunken DSP (Police Officer) by the name of Swaran Hundal for refusing to sing a song, cutting short the career of this legend that had left a lasting impact on Punjabi music.  He is also the Brother of the singer Manpreet Akhtar and the Cousin of the late Sandeep Akhtar.