Singer Masoom Sharma joins anti-drug bucket challenge

The Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB) has expanded its innovative #Nasha Mukt Nayaab Jeevan Bucket Challenge”, directly engaging Haryanvi singers whose music often glorifies drugs and violence.

“The campaign, already well-received for its simplicity and relevance, now focuses on holding cultural influencers accountable by asking them to clarify their stance on these sensitive issues. By challenging singers to take the bucket challenge, the HSNCB seeks to distinguish their artistic personas—guided by commercial interests—from their real-life responsibilities as citizens committed to a drug-free Haryana,” said OP Singh, Director General of the bureau.

“Music and popular culture are powerful tools for shaping societal values. While songs glamourising drugs and violence may be intended for entertainment, they often influence young minds in unintended ways. Through this challenge, we aim to show the contrast between an artist’s commercial work and their real-life stance as responsible citizens,” he said.

Masoom Sharma is the first artist to accept the challenge. “My songs are created purely for entertainment and driven by commercial demand,” he said. “They are not meant to promote or endorse drugs or violence. In real life, I am strongly against these vices and believe that everyone, especially the youth, should stay away from them. This campaign gave me a chance to make that clear,” he added.

“This is just the beginning,” Singh said. “We aim to bring more cultural influencers into the fold, ensuring that the message of a drug-free life reaches every corner of Haryana.”

The glamourisation of drugs, guns, and gang culture in Haryanvi music videos have raised concerns in recent years. With tracks like “Goli Chal Javegi,” “Kasoote 2,” and “Bam Lehri”, singers like Masoom Sharma have faced criticism for promoting harmful behaviours.