Is Diljit Dosanjh the actor overshadowed by Diljit the international pop star? Let’s discuss!

As we celebrate one year of Chamkila, let’s take a look at the acting prowess of Diljit Dosanjh which is often overshadowed by his towering stature as a pop star.

I first saw Diljit Dosanjh when he made his appearance at a Hindi comedy show in the early 2010s where actor-comedian Krushna, introduced him to the audience and revealed that his film Jatt and Juliet is the highest-grossing Punjabi film in history with earnings of Rs. 40 crores! 

That was a staggering number for a regional film and mind you a decade ago! This propelled me to give it a watch and I was not disappointed. The rom-com also starring Neeru Bajwa was completely worth the hype and tickled my funny bones for two hours straight. Diljit’s effortless portrayal of an aimless but street-smart Fateh wanting to marry a Canadian girl to get the country's citizenship, showcased his skills in the genre considered the most challenging to master- comedy. The chemistry of the lead pair, their comic timing and the chaotic situations ensured I had a smile on my face for 2 hours straight. 

Also Read: Hilarious Diljit Dosanjh videos that are sure to entertain you

I went down the rabbit hole and there began my obsession with Diljit Dosanjh’s Punjabi films. Every weekend I started exploring Diljit’s famous film franchise and had a good time. Needless to say, I wanted to see him make it big in Bollywood and it happened! The next few years saw Diljit’s popularity grow multifold both in music and movie landscapes. He made his Bollywood debut in Udta Punjab and his performance as the conflicted police officer Sartaj complemented the film’s raw and gritty settings and earned him the Filmfare award for Best Debut. He then starred in Phillaury where he brought his trademark goodness to a rather bland role that gave this mediocre film some magical moments. 

Dosanjh is a fine performer who brings honesty to every role and the same was evident in Sajjan Singh Rangroot. Based on a true story about the Sikh regiment, serving in the British Indian Army, during World War I, his portrayal of a brave and earnest rural youngster who is conflicted about serving British masters moved the audience and was lauded by the critics. Dharma’s Good Newwzz saw him swaying the Bollywood audience one more time with his penchant for comedy but also touching their hearts with emotional scenes in the film. 

Then came Jogi - the emotionally charged fictitious tale of friendship and humanity, set in the background of anti-Sikh riots in 1984 following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Diljit’s towering performance elevated this brilliantly crafted film. Those moments of vulnerability and strong resolve once again revealed the depth he possesses as an actor. The sequence in the film where he removes his turban with tears continuously flowing down his cheek left the audience in shivers as he proved his mettle in intense genres.

The 2020s witnessed the rise of Diljit Dosanjh on the global stage as a music artist, especially with albums like G.O.A.T. and Moonchild Era. His sold-out shows in the USA, Canada, and Australia and his memorable collaborations with artists like Sia, rapper Saweetie, Columbian singer Camilo, and Ed Sheeran made him a household name internationally. In April 2023 he became the first Indian artist to perform at Coachella Valley, making him a major force in Punjabi music with a global following. 

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However, 2024 witnessed Dosanjh giving his career-defining performance in Imtiaz Ali’s Amar Singh Chamkila, a beautifully crafted ode to Punjab’s infamous slain singer. Besides, Diljit’s rustic vocals, the perfect blend of humility, frustration, and angst in his performance towards the dichotomy of society who disgraces his work in public but also enjoys it in private, was one for ages. A scene that stayed with me was when Chamkila mentions his caste and declares that no matter where he has emerged from, he is not going back there and asserts he will not starve to death, giving strong insight into his character and why he is doing what he does. The determination yet a hint of vulnerability in his eyes encapsulated the motto of Chamkila’s life and displayed Dosanjh's ability to pull off a character as layered as this with ease. 

While Diljit’s musical presence is increasingly getting recognized on a global stage and it is a matter of great pride for the Indian entertainment industry, I’m sure his fans would also love to see his films, a medium that he has equally proved his mettle in, being celebrated more!

Which is your favorite Diljit Dosanjh film? Tell us in the comments below

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