From Punjab’s fields to the global spotlight: Diljit Dosanjh makes historic appearance on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’

In a groundbreaking moment for Indian entertainment, Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh made history as the first Punjabi artist to perform on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ this week.

The singer and actor, renowned for his significant contributions to Punjabi music and cinema, delighted audiences with his charismatic presence and energetic performances of his hit tracks ‘G.O.A.T’ and ‘Born To Shine.’

Jimmy Fallon introduced Diljit as “the biggest Punjabi artist on the planet,” highlighting the global reach of his music. Dosanjh, who is currently on his Dil-Luminati music tour across North America, appeared on stage dressed in traditional Punjabi attire, complete with a matching turban and pleated fan, embodying his cultural roots. During his performance, Diljit made a memorable impact by slightly altering the lyrics of ‘G.O.A.T.’ to reflect his international reach. Pointing at Fallon, he sang, “Hollywood vich jine stars hai unade vich baitha sardar goriye,” signaling his presence among Hollywood stars. The original lyrics referenced Bollywood and its Khans.

Diljit also took a moment to sing the line ‘Mein hu Punjab’ from his film Amar Singh Chamkila with Imtiaz Ali, further cementing his cultural pride. Following his captivating performance, an impressed Jimmy Fallon joined him on stage, exclaiming, “That is how you do it!” Diljit responded by playfully rolling his mustache in true Punjabi style.
In an earlier interview, Diljit had shared his excitement and anticipation about the performance. “I don’t know how I feel, I will maybe feel it when I am there. Let’s go see first what happens there. I have watched Jimmy Fallon show before. I am going there for a musical act, we will perform a song,” he said. He also revealed his aspirations, saying, “I just had one dream that I want to become extremely famous and become a singer. This kept growing and it happened. I was quite young when I had this in mind. I had a strong feeling about it and always prayed, ‘god, I don’t want to know anybody, but let the entire world know me’.”

Diljit announced his appearance on the show a week ago on his Instagram, where he wrote, “PANJABI AAGYE OYEE This Week’s Guest.” His fans responded with overwhelming enthusiasm, celebrating his achievement as a significant milestone for Punjabi artists on international platforms.

This appearance on ‘The Tonight Show’ is seen as a significant step in bridging the gap between Indian and Western entertainment industries. Fans and critics alike praised Dosanjh’s performance, highlighting the growing global influence of Punjabi music and culture. With his dynamic performance and magnetic charm, Diljit Dosanjh continues to break barriers and set new standards, solidifying his position as a global music icon.