Diljit Dosanjh accused of not paying background dancers

Superstar Diljit Dosanjh has been receiving unlimited adoration from the desi community across the globe for his sold-out arena shows in Canada and the US. However, a storm is brewing behind the scenes of its sequel Dil-Luminati tourwith claims that his dancers are not paid, Indian Express mentionted.

Los Angeles-based entrepreneur and dance institute owner Rajat Batta took to social media to praise Diljit’s achievements while expressing his dismay at the alleged mistreatment of the dancers. “We are proud that Diljit broke the glass ceiling,” Rajat shared, tagging the star on Instagram. “But it is deeply disappointing that Desi Dancers are still underrated as an industry. All Desi Dancers at Diljit’s Diluminati Tour they weren’t paid and were just expected to play for free.”

He further added, “It is really disappointing to see an artiste of this caliber cut corners by stepping on the neck of the Desi Dancer industry and continue to perform in this culture.”

In response, several dancers from the tour released a statement, expressing their honor to serve the community and calling it an “invaluable opportunity” to showcase “Punjabi culture on a global stage.” Their post read, “Each performance is a tribute to our virsa, preserving the pure folk traditions of bhangra that we love. To share our art form on such a prestigious platform is a priceless reward in itself.”

The dancers expressed their willingness to perform and thanked Diljit for the opportunity. “While we appreciate the concern, we do not wish to be represented by the voices that do not understand our relationship, our motivations, our sacrifices and the immense value we place on such experiences. We are proud of our involvement and the new avenues it has opened for the Punjabi community. Don’t try to break our bond. We stay united.” The post was signed by “All The Bhangra Teams & Captains”.

Despite the dancers’ impassioned defense, their statement leaves unclear whether they received any payment, suggesting they were compensated with “opportunities” rather than financial remuneration.

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