Toronto: Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh, known for his musical artistry and controversial choices, is set to become the focus of an academic course at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) in Canada.
TMU’s The Creative School has announced that it will launch a course in late 2026 dedicated to exploring Dosanjh’s influence on global pop culture, Punjabi music, and the identity of the Indian diaspora.
The announcement was made at the Billboard Summit during Toronto’s NXNE Festival. This marks the first time a Canadian university will offer an academic programme centred on a Punjabi artist.
Assistant Professor Dr Charlie Wall-Andrews, who will be involved with the course, said that Dosanjh’s career highlights the “cultural impact and economic potential of Punjabi music on the world stage.”
According to Canadian media reports, the course will examine how Dosanjh’s work connects cultures, mobilises South Asian communities and promotes creative entrepreneurship.
The announcement comes amid a controversy in India over Dosanjh’s decision to cast Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. The move has reignited debate over artistic freedom against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions.
The developments underscore the complex journey of a global star navigating fame, identity and national sentiment.
