“I don’t mind being compared to a cab or truck driver."
Diljit Dosanjh responded to racist comments directed at him during the Australia-New Zealand leg of his Aura 2025 world tour.
After arriving in Australia on October 28, Diljit shared a behind-the-scenes video showing local photo agencies capturing his arrival.
The post triggered a stream of racist remarks online, including “The new Uber driver is here” and “The new 7/11 employee has arrived.”
Rather than retaliate, Dosanjh called for unity and dignity.
He said: “I don’t mind being compared to a cab or truck driver.
“If truck drivers cease to exist, you won’t get bread for your home. I’m not angry, and my love goes out to everyone.”
Fans showed their support for the artist, with one saying:
“200% right… I worked as a security officer on your Aura night at Sydney! You won my heart.”
Another commented: “Respect for you brother.”
The Punjabi star also addressed the incident during his sold-out Melbourne concert on November 1.
Speaking in Punjabi, he told fans: “Our people have worked so hard that today the workers here are White people.”
Australia’s Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Julian Hill, condemned the racist abuse and issued a public apology.
He said: “Nobody should be discriminated against for who they are, and I am sorry Diljit has copped such rubbish from a tiny minority of idiots.
“The positive and educative spirit in which Diljit has responded… is to be admired and respected.”
The Aura tour has also faced other controversies.
On October 26, several Sikh attendees were denied entry to Diljit Dosanjh’s Sydney concert at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta for carrying kirpans.
Venue operator Venues NSW stated that kirpans are prohibited inside its venues and that it provides a “secure cloaking service”.
However, some attendees said they chose to leave rather than remove the religious article.
Adding to the tension, US-based advocacy group Sikhs for Justice threatened to disrupt Diljit’s Melbourne show on November 1, observed globally as Sikh Genocide Remembrance Day.
The group criticised the artist for touching Amitabh Bachchan’s feet as a mark of respect.
Despite the controversy, Diljit’s Aura tour has continued across major Australian cities including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth.
Each show has sold out, reaffirming his position as one of India’s most successful global performers.
His measured response to racism, and his continued success, have only strengthened his image as a cultural ambassador who represents both resilience and pride in identity.
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