Born to shine: Diljit Dosanjh now part of Canada's Toronto Metropolitan University curriculum
is now set to be a part of the curriculum coursework at the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) in Canada. This newly introduced course, offered through the Creative School at TMU, will explore the 'cultural, musical and diasporic relevance' of Dosanjh's work, according to Billboard Canada.
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Hailed as 'first of its kind', this course will focus on the Punjabi artist and his growing relevance and impact at a global scale. The announcement was made at the Billboard Summit at NXNE in Toronto. The course is set to launch in late 2026.
'Toronto Metropolitan University is excited to pioneer a course on Diljit Dosanjh, whose journey embodies the intersection of culture, identity and global music entrepreneurship," says Dr.
Charlie Wall-Andrews, Assistant Professor at The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University. "His rise illustrates the cultural influence and economic potential of Punjabi music on the world stage. By examining his impact, students will explore how regional sounds shape global pop culture, mobilize diasporic communities and contribute to sustainable creative economies rooted in authenticity', says Wall-Andrews, as reported by Billboard.
Sonali Singh, CEO of Ripple Effects and Business Manager of Diljit Dosanjh, had shared, 'His journey represents far more than commercial success. It stands for cultural pride, creative freedom, and global representation for Punjabi and South Asian communities. Seeing his impact formally recognized in an academic space is not only powerful; it's long overdue.'
This announcement comes amid the controversy surrounding Dosanjh's yet-to-be-released movie 'Sardaar Ji 3,' which casts Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
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The All Indian Cine Workers Association has criticized Dosanjh and his team for casting the Pakistani actress, as reported by PTI.
"This decision comes at a time when the entire nation—140 crore Indians, the government, the opposition, and citizens across all walks of life—are united against Pakistan and standing in solidarity with the families of the martyred," the organisation said in a statement.
Hania Aamir's presence in the movie has led social media users to call for a boycott of the movie.
Dosanjh is currently on his 'Dil-Luminati' tour and is scheduled to perform in France, the UK, Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands later this year.
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