From Stage to Syllabus: Toronto Metropolitan University to Offer Course on Diljit Dosanjh
Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, known for chart-topping hits and groundbreaking global performances, is all set to make his academic debut — not as a lecturer or guest speaker, but as the subject of a university course. Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) in Canada has announced that it will introduce a course focused on Dosanjh’s cultural and musical journey at its renowned Creative School starting in the fall of 2026.
The announcement was made during the Billboard Summit at NXNE (North by Northeast) in Toronto, a high-profile event that brings together influential voices from the global music and media industry. The course will explore Dosanjh’s artistic impact, his role in the globalisation of Punjabi music, and how his work engages diasporic identity and representation.
“Toronto Metropolitan University is excited to pioneer a course on Diljit Dosanjh, whose journey embodies the intersection of culture, identity, and global music entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Charlie Wall-Andrews, Assistant Professor at The Creative School. “His rise illustrates the cultural influence and economic potential of Punjabi music on the world stage.”
Dr. Wall-Andrews emphasized that the course will help students understand how regional sounds like Punjabi music shape global pop culture, empower diaspora communities, and contribute to building sustainable creative economies rooted in authenticity and storytelling.
For many, the inclusion of Diljit Dosanjh in the academic space is a reflection of his transformative influence. Sonali Singh, CEO of Ripple Effects, who is involved in shaping the course, described the moment as “long overdue.”
“It’s a true honour to help shape a course around an artist like Diljit Dosanjh,” Singh said. “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 recognised in an academic space is not only powerful; it’s necessary.”
Over the last two decades, Dosanjh has emerged as one of the most influential Punjabi artists globally. His albums such as MoonChild Era and G.O.A.T. have gained international acclaim, with MoonChild Era peaking at No. 32 on the Canadian Albums Chart — a rare milestone for an Indian artist.
In 2023, Dosanjh made history by headlining the Dil-Luminati tour, which became the largest Punjabi concert series in Canada’s history. His fan base spans across continents, and in 2024, he further elevated his profile with his performance in Netflix’s Chamkila, directed by Imtiaz Ali. The film received praise for Dosanjh’s portrayal of the late Punjabi folk icon Amar Singh Chamkila.
Beyond his music career, Dosanjh has also made significant contributions to Indian cinema, starring in successful Punjabi films like Jatt & Juliet, Punjab 1984, and Sajjan Singh Rangroot. His Bollywood debut in Udta Punjab earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut, further establishing him as a versatile performer.
The course at TMU will not only celebrate Dosanjh’s achievements but will also critically analyze the broader implications of his work on South Asian identity, global music trends, and the evolving role of diasporic voices in mainstream culture.
With this bold academic move, Toronto Metropolitan University becomes one of the first institutions in North America to recognize the significance of a South Asian artist through a dedicated course — marking yet another milestone in Diljit Dosanjh’s already extraordinary journey.
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