Haryanvi Singer Shot Dead in 20-Round Attack Outside Gym, Song Lyrics Resurface

Popular Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Baliyan was shot dead outside a gym in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday evening.

The 35-year-old was attacked by three to four armed men, who reportedly fired around 20 rounds at him before fleeing the scene. Baliyan had just completed his workout and was walking towards his car, around 20-25 metres from the gym, when the attackers opened fire at around 7 pm. He suffered several bullet wounds, including one to the head, and died at the scene. Police have launched an investigation into the murder, but the motive has not yet been confirmed.

The Gogi gang has claimed responsibility for the killing. In a statement, the gang alleged that Baliyan was in contact with its rivals and had produced a song linked to an incident involving the group.

An Instagram account linked to Bholu Shahpuria, who is reportedly associated with the gang, also posted a warning after the killing, claiming that the incident was only the beginning and threatening further action. The post also issued a warning to the Uttar Pradesh Police.

His Song Adds a Grim Twist

Baliyan’s death has attracted widespread attention because of the title of one of his best-known songs, Bhari Court Mein Goli Maarenge Meri Jaan. The track revolves around gun violence, making its lyrics and title particularly disturbing in the aftermath of the singer’s own killing.

His music was largely rooted in Haryanvi pop culture, with songs and videos featuring themes of rural identity, regional pride, local politics, weapons and youth bravado.

A native of Bantikhera village in Shamli, Baliyan had spent the past few years living in Rohtak and Sonipat while pursuing music and acting. He had reportedly been visiting the gym in Shamli regularly for about a year.

Investigators are examining multiple possible motives, including an old rivalry and a potential connection with the upcoming Panchayat elections.

Road Blockade After Killing

The murder sparked protests by Baliyan’s relatives and local residents. They placed his body on the road and blocked the Delhi-Muzaffarnagar Road, demanding that the perpetrators be arrested.

Protesters said they would not vacate the road until the accused were taken into custody. They also said Baliyan’s final rites would be held only after the arrests.

Baliyan’s Music Career

Baliyan had developed a strong digital following through Haryanvi songs, music videos, podcasts and vlogs. His content often focused on desi identity, rural life, local politics and themes of power and bravado.

He worked with several well-known Haryanvi artists, including Masoom Sharma, Raju Punjabi and Aashu Twinkle. He also expanded his online presence through political podcasts and interviews with politicians and community figures in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

His other popular tracks included 112 NE, Goli Ke Barood, Jaat Jatni, Agla Janam Jaat, Savidhan, Modi Barga Rutba, Jaat Dharmender Ki Tariya, Ek Khtola Jail Ke Bhitar, Wait, System and Riflein.

Yet following his death, Bhari Court Mein Goli Maarenge Meri Jaan has drawn particular attention. The song’s focus on gun violence has taken on an eerie significance after Baliyan himself was killed in a shooting outside the gym.