In a deeply emotional and candid interview with the BBC, singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh opened up about his profound connection with Punjab and the global representation of Punjabi culture. The interview comes at a tense moment for the star, who is facing backlash in India over his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. The film is scheduled to release overseas on June 27.
Diljit, visibly moved during the conversation, addressed criticism that he only focuses on Punjab and avoids speaking about India. “I don’t want it to seem like I’m doing anything for Punjab. I’m just doing my job. Whatever is happening is not in my control. I am Punjabi, what can I say?” he said, adding, “I’m working for myself. I’m a very selfish guy.”
He also offered a philosophical reflection on life and criticism. “When someone hates me, I like to think that there is probably something still inside me that deserves to be hated. When I become a better person, I will not be hated anymore,” he said. Speaking with pride, he called Punjab a land of resilience and talent. “Perhaps Punjab is blessed, but perhaps it is also cursed,” he said.
Clarifying that representing his roots was not a political stance, Diljit emphasized that it was a matter of personal identity. He shared how his international appearances—at Coachella, on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and the Met Gala 2025—were all part of his dream to bring Punjabi culture to the global stage.
The Met Gala, in particular, held deep significance for him. Recalling how he envisioned the look in his vanity van, he said, “I cried when I first had the vision… I wanted to honour my Punjabi culture.” He wore a cape with the map of Punjab and Gurmukhi script, calling it “not about Diljit, but about Punjab going to the Met Gala.”
Diljit also criticized Cartier, accusing the French luxury brand of stealing the Maharaja of Patiala’s iconic necklace. He said he asked Cartier to let him wear the historic necklace for the Met Gala, but the brand declined, claiming it was at an exhibition. “So we had a replica made,” he said. “I wanted to look like a raja. That necklace was ours, and they took it.”
Addressing the controversy surrounding Sardaar Ji 3, Dosanjh explained that the decision to release the film internationally was taken by the producers, not him. He clarified that the film was shot well before the Pahalgam terror attack and urged critics to understand the context before passing judgment.
Despite the backlash, Diljit remained steadfast in his mission: “The Punjabi language is ancient. It is due some respect. There is a whole story there.” His message was clear—he may be a global star, but his soul remains firmly rooted in Punjab.
