June 11, 2025: Alongside the fan delightful “Moose Print” mixtape followed what was meant to be a quiet tribute to the late Sidhu Moosewala. His birth anniversary has turned into a storm of legal tension and emotional outpouring. While fans flooded YouTube and Spotify to celebrate the posthumous release of three unreleased tracks from the Punjabi rap icon, a two-part documentary by the BBC World Service, The Killing Call, ignited controversy after going live online despite legal efforts to halt it.
The documentary, which chronicles Moosewala’s rise and his tragic assassination in May 2022, was originally slated for a public screening in Mumbai on June 11, Moosewala’s birthday. However, legal resistance from the late singer’s father, Balkaur Singh, prompted the BBC to bypass the theatrical route and release it directly on YouTube.
Sidhu Moosewala Family Legal Battle Against BBC Release
Balkaur Singh had petitioned a civil court in Mansa, Punjab, seeking an injunction against the documentary, alleging it violates the family’s privacy and could hinder the ongoing murder trial. Despite the plea, Civil Judge Rajinder Singh Nagpal declined to issue a stay order, scheduling a full hearing for June 12.
Singh’s legal counsel argued that the documentary used Moosewala’s name, likeness, and life story without consent. They also flagged concerns over invitations claiming to reveal “unknown details” about the slain artist—asserting these could harm his legacy.
BBC has not officially commented on the legal challenge, but the documentary remains accessible globally via YouTube.
Documentary Content and Global Reactions
The Killing Call unfolds across two episodes. The first explores Sidhu Moosewala’s journey, from rural Punjab to becoming a global rap phenomenon in Canada. The second delves into the chilling events leading to his murder, including a revealing phone call with fugitive gangster Goldy Brar, who has publicly claimed responsibility.
Through interviews with journalists, law enforcement, and those close to Moosewala, the documentary paints a multifaceted picture of crime, politics, and celebrity in modern India.
A Musical Resurrection: ‘Moose Print’ Mixtape Goes Live
Coinciding with the documentary’s launch, Moosewala’s official YouTube channel and Spotify account dropped three unreleased tracks: 008, Take Notes, and Neal. Produced by The Kidd, Mrxci, Jay B Singh, and Moosewala himself, the songs are part of a posthumous mixtape titled Moose Print.
Within hours, the tracks racked up over 7.8 million views on YouTube, sparking a social media wave as fans shared emotional tributes. Hashtags like #JusticeForMoosewala, #Moose Print’ Sparks Fan Frenzy; BBC Drops The Killing Call , and #SidhuLivesOn began trending, further cementing his enduring legacy.
Public Interest vs. Privacy Debate Intensifies
Balkaur Singh has lodged complaints with Maharashtra’s Director General of Police and the Juhu police station, citing the documentary’s release without permission. So far, there has been no official police response.
This controversy reignites long-standing debates over the ethics of posthumous storytelling, especially in high-profile criminal cases. Does public interest override the family’s consent? Can documentaries influence legal proceedings?
A Legacy Larger Than Life
Sidhu Moosewala, born Shubhdeep Singh Sidhu, was only 28 when he was ambushed and fatally shot in Punjab’s Mansa district. His assassination shocked millions and exposed the murky nexus of celebrity, gang warfare, and politics in India.
Despite the unresolved investigation and fugitive status of Goldy Brar, Moosewala’s influence remains undeniable. In both courtroom drama and cultural celebration, his story continues to unfold, compelling, controversial, and deeply human.