Punjab's global star, not Indian? Diljit Dosanjh's US citizenship report sparks buzz

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who recently rejected calls to join politics in Punjab, has reportedly been travelling on a US passport since 2022. According to a report by The Indian Express, the actor-singer acquired US citizenship that year and no longer holds Indian citizenship.

The report added that Dosanjh has entered India on an e-visa since September 2022, suggesting that he does not possess an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card either. It further mentioned that he used his US passport during his most recent visit to India as well.

"Main Hoon Punjab" but not Indian?

The revelation has drawn attention because Dosanjh remains one of the most celebrated Indian-origin artists globally, with a massive fan base across India and a public image deeply tied to Punjabi identity and culture. Over the years, he has frequently referred to himself as "Main Hoon Punjab [I am Punjab]," a phrase that became closely associated with his persona. However, he has never publicly spoken about giving up Indian citizenship or acquiring US nationality.

Interestingly, Dosanjh has continued to work extensively in Indian cinema even after reportedly becoming a US citizen. Earlier this year, he joined the cast of Border 2, where he portrayed Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the only Indian Air Force officer to have been honoured with a Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military award.

Diljit Dosanjh's passport details

As per the report, Dosanjh's last Indian passport was issued in Mumbai in 2018, while an earlier passport had been issued in Zambia. His wife, Sandeep Kaur, is reportedly also a US citizen. At the time of obtaining US citizenship, he is said to have listed a luxury bungalow in California as his residential address.

The report comes days after a Punjab-based group of retired IAS officers, defence personnel and professionals publicly urged Dosanjh to step into politics and take up leadership in the state. The singer, however, turned down the appeal with a brief response on X, writing, "Kadey v nahi. Mera kaam entertainment karna [Never. My only job is to entertain]."

Under Indian law, foreign nationals seeking Indian citizenship must fulfil residency requirements under the Citizenship Act, including living in India for a specified number of years before applying.

Born in Punjab's Dosanjh Kalan village, Dosanjh rose to fame with albums like G.O.A.T., MoonChild Era, Ghost, Ishq Da Uda Ada, among others, and later became one of the biggest names in Punjabi cinema and music. He also gained national recognition through films like Udta Punjab and international visibility with appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and a Coachella performance.