Diljit Dosanjh is now a name that resonates across continents, a global icon known for his music, films, and magnetic presence. Today, he’s celebrated for his chart-topping Dil Luminati Tour, his appearance on The Tonight Show, and notable films like Chamkila and Crew. But the road to stardom was anything but instant. Back in 2011, when The Lion of Punjab—his debut film—released, Diljit was still balancing the hustle between cinema and his already flourishing music career.
His co-star from that film, Jividha Sharma, recently opened up in an interview about the early days of working with the now-superstar. “I remember working with him. He is a changed person now. His experience over the years has made him an intellect. All that he has achieved today with his hard work is commendable. And the best thing about him is that God too blessed him,” she shared.
Even at the start, Diljit Dosanjh wasn’t just another newcomer. “Although it was Diljit’s first film, he was already a star due to his singing career. People recognised him and loved his songs. That’s how he bagged the film because in Punjab, there is a culture of bringing singers as lead stars. He is very hardworking. He shot with us for the film in the morning and would rush at night to do his stage shows. These stage shows used to be in different cities, sometimes would go until early morning, yet he would always look fresh and be on time for the shoot.”
Jividha also recalled how she was amazed by his stamina and unwavering spirit. “I used to ask him, how are you doing this? This was not humanly possible. And I guess because of all that hard work, he is where he is today.” One memory, in particular, stood out to her—a moment that, in hindsight, seemed almost prophetic. “Once we were travelling somewhere in Mumbai, towards Andheri West, I guess. There, we saw this huge hoarding board of a film or so. Looking at it, very innocently yet confidently, Diljit said, ‘One day, I will be there on the hoarding.’ And years later, he was there.”
That quiet promise, spoken on a Mumbai street, now echoes through sold-out arenas and blockbuster screens. Diljit’s story is not just one of talent but of relentless effort, sleepless ambition, and the kind of faith that turns dreams into reality.