Toronto Metropolitan University is making academic history with the announcement of a groundbreaking course focused entirely on Punjabi music sensation Diljit Dosanjh. Launching in Fall 2026 through The Creative School, the course marks the first time a Canadian university will offer an in-depth study of a Punjabi artist’s global cultural impact.
The announcement was made at the Billboard Summit during NXNE in Toronto, where music industry leaders gathered to explore shifting trends. The course will explore Dosanjh’s rise from regional fame to international stardom, examining how his music has shaped diaspora identity, pop culture, and global entrepreneurship in the creative sector.
“Diljit’s journey is a case study in how regional music can redefine global soundscapes,” said Dr. Charlie Wall-Andrews, Assistant Professor at The Creative School. “This course goes beyond celebrity. It’s about cultural authenticity, community mobilization, and building sustainable creative economies.”
Dosanjh’s 2023 Dil-Luminati tour broke records as the largest Punjabi concert series in Canadian history, cementing his place as a transformative figure in music. His influence has earned him numerous accolades, including a dedicated print edition by Billboard Canada—a first for any Punjabi artist.
Billboard is collaborating with TMU to help develop the course. Mo Ghoneim, President of Billboard UK and Billboard Canada, praised the artist’s role in bridging cultures and generations. “Diljit is more than a performer—he’s a global movement. Bringing that story into the classroom is a powerful and timely step forward.”
The curriculum will cover the intersections of music, identity, business, and culture, offering students a deep dive into how Dosanjh and artists like him are challenging language barriers, genre limitations, and geographic borders. The course also highlights the broader economic and social impact of Punjabi music on the world stage—positioning Dosanjh not only as a musical icon, but as a cultural force shaping the future of entertainment.