Why Diljit Dosanjh’s Parents Abandoned Him When He Was Just 11

Diljit Dosanjh’s rise to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born on January 6, 1984, to a Jat Sikh Family, Diljeet had a very humble beginning. He spent most of his childhood in Punjab (Dosanjh Kalan and Ludhiana). Diljit’s father Balbir Singh worked for Punjab Roadways as a bus driver. He spent most of his childhood in Punjab (Dosanjh Kalan and Ludhiana). 

In a podcast with BeerBiceps, Diljit revealed a secret that scarred his childhood. Read to know more. 

Diljit’s Parents Abandoned Him 

When Ranveer Allahabadia asked Diljit what was so intense and deep, he revealed that his parents abandoned him when he was just 11 and he had to spend most of his childhood alone, which led to deep emotional trauma. It was this trauma that scarred his childhood. Diljit further added that people often perceive his trauma as a secret to his success but he wants it to be treated as a tragedy only. 

"I was 11-years-old when I left my home and started living with my mama ji (maternal uncle)” he shared. However his parents made the decision of sending him away without even asking him once. 

Diljit moved to the city and lost all contact with his parents, which further increased the distance between them. “Mai akela hogaya (I became lonely). I used to stay alone and spent most of my time in a small room. I used to go to school and come back. We didn’t have a TV and I had a lot of spare time. Also, we didn’t have mobile phones at that time. Even if I wanted to call home it would cost us money. So I started becoming distant from my family.” he told Ranveer.

Although the time was emotionally painful for him, he holds no grudges because he believes that his parents made that decision in his best interest. “Their intentions were good. They wanted their son to go to a big city and learn something,” he said. “Every parent’s dream is for their child to be successful.” 

When Diljit Introduced His Family 

The Indian singer, actor, and producer has captured millions of hearts over the past couple of years with his phenomenal performance that has captivated audiences worldwide. 2024 was even more special because he began his global concert, Dil-Luminati Tour. Diljit, who has always kept his personal life away from the limelight, introduced his family during his UK concert. He thanked his dad and said “I love you” to him, while the audience cheered. Diljit also revealed that this was the first time he ever said that to his father. 

Today, Diljit stands as a strong example of how raw determination and spirit can turn even the darkest moments into stepping stones toward success, inspiring countless others who may be facing their own battles in life.