World of Secrets: The Killing Call - Episode 4: Making Enemies

Release Date: June 10, 2025
Host: Ishleen Kaur & Bobby Frixion
Producer: BBC World Service

Introduction

In Episode 4 of "The Killing Call," titled "Making Enemies," investigative journalists Ishleen Kaur and Bobby Frixion delve deeper into the enigmatic and tragic murder of Sidhu Moose Wala, one of India's most revered Punjabi music stars. This episode uncovers the intertwining threads of fame, political activism, and criminal underworlds that culminated in Sidhu's untimely death.

Sidhu Moose Wala's Rise to Fame

Sidhu Moose Wala, born Shubhdeep Singh Sidhu, emerged as a sensational figure in Punjabi music, blending traditional melodies with contemporary beats. His return to his village, Musa, marked a pivotal moment in his career and personal life.

Ishleen Kaur ([05:16]): "Last time we saw Sidhu, he'd come back to India from Canada to perform a concert at Punjab University. He also goes back to his village, Musa, and it really is a homecoming."

Videos capturing Sidhu's interactions with his village showcased his genuine connection with his roots, making him a beloved figure among locals.

The Socio-Political Landscape of Punjab

Punjab's tumultuous history, marked by the contentious Operation Blue Star in 1984 and subsequent riots, set the backdrop for Sidhu's music and activism. The lingering scars from these events fueled ongoing tensions between the Sikh community and the Indian government.

Sidhu Musiala ([15:02]): "Who isn't affected? A mistake was made. So many people were killed. The Prime Minister was killed. And what was the result? Punjab would be 60, 70 years ahead economically if this hadn't happened."

Sidhu's lyrics began reflecting the socio-political issues plaguing Punjab, resonating with a population grappling with unemployment, drug abuse, and a search for identity.

Sidhu's Activism and the Farmers' Protest

In December 2020, Sidhu became an outspoken supporter of the massive farmers' protests against new agricultural laws introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His involvement amplified the movement's visibility and intensity.

Ishleen Kaur ([18:21]): "Sidhu organizes a tractor rally in support of the farmers. You see him standing high above the surging sea of protesters, commanding the crowd."

His anthem, "Punjab My Motherland," became a rallying cry, symbolizing resistance against perceived governmental oppression.

Threats from Criminal Gangs

Sidhu's rising influence and political stance inevitably entangled him with Punjab's criminal factions. Particularly, rivalries between Lawrence Bishnoi's gang and the Bambiha gang became critical.

Manjinder Makkha ([21:04]): "Banchinda, can you tell us of a time when you were with him and he received a threat call?"

Despite receiving multiple threats demanding money and public capitulation, Sidhu remained defiant, refusing to be silenced.

The Murder of Sidhu Moose Wala

On the night of his murder, Sidhu faced orchestrated threats from criminal adversaries. Lawrence Bishnoi, a notorious gang leader, reportedly orchestrated the call that led to Sidhu's assassination.

Bobby Frixion ([27:24]): "Lawrence Bishnoi is also the guy who took that call in prison on the night Siddhu was killed. The call in which he was told we've killed him."

The assassination was not merely a random act of violence but a calculated move to eliminate a prominent figure threatening their interests.

Investigations and Revelations

Posthumously, investigations revealed the complex web surrounding Sidhu's death. Allegations pointed towards his manager, Shaganpreet Singh, being involved in facilitating the murder of political figure Vicky Medikera, which intensified gang rivalries.

Ritesh Laqi ([28:58]): "The murder of Vicky Medikera mattered to Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldie Brar because of their shared history."

Despite widespread speculation, police investigations found no direct evidence linking Sidhu himself to any criminal activities, underscoring his role as a victim caught in the crossfire of gang conflicts.

Conclusion

"Making Enemies" paints a comprehensive picture of Sidhu Moose Wala's life, highlighting how his pursuit of artistic integrity and political activism inadvertently positioned him against powerful criminal entities. The episode underscores the perilous intersection of fame, activism, and crime, ultimately leading to a tragedy that reverberates across India's cultural and political landscape.

Ishleen Kaur ([35:26]): "What makes Sidhu's murder so impactful is not just the loss of a beloved artist, but the revelation of the dark forces operating beneath the glittering surface of fame."

As the investigation continues, "World of Secrets" promises to unravel more layers of this intricate case in the upcoming episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Ishleen Kaur ([05:16]): "Last time we saw Sidhu, he'd come back to India from Canada to perform a concert at Punjab University."

• Sidhu Musiala ([15:02]): "Who isn't affected? A mistake was made. So many people were killed. The Prime Minister was killed."

• Bobby Frixion ([27:24]): "Lawrence Bishnoi is also the guy who took that call in prison on the night Siddhu was killed."

• Ishleen Kaur ([35:26]): "What makes Sidhu's murder so impactful is not just the loss of a beloved artist, but the revelation of the dark forces operating beneath the glittering surface of fame."

This detailed exploration offers listeners an in-depth understanding of the forces that led to the tragic demise of Sidhu Moose Wala, blending personal narratives with broader socio-political contexts.