Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has found himself at the centre of an online controversy after several social media users accused his song Aroma of promoting harmful stereotypes about the queer community. The track, released on April 23, initially arrived with little controversy and quickly blended into the singer’s long list of chart-friendly Punjabi hits. But weeks later, the conversation around one particular verse began gaining traction online, especially after the start of Pride Month on June 1.
The criticism largely emerged after content creators started translating and dissecting the Punjabi lyrics for a wider audience. Many users claimed the song appeared to glorify a rigid idea of masculinity while using words associated with the queer and transgender community in a derogatory way. Among the voices calling out the lyrics was content creator Faith Michael, who posted an Instagram reel expressing disappointment over the song. “The queer community did not expect this from you,” Faith said in the video, adding that Aroma had previously been part of their playlist before they understood the meaning of the verse being discussed online.
Faith further argued that the song seemed to reduce queer identities to symbols of weakness while celebrating “traditional masculinity.” The creator also questioned whether anyone involved in the production process had raised concerns before the song’s release. The criticism quickly spread beyond Instagram and onto X, where users began debating not just the song, but the broader culture of hypermasculinity in Punjabi music.
One user wrote that the controversy highlighted how vulnerable communities are often portrayed negatively in songs to reinforce stereotypical ideas of manhood. Others pointed out that Diljit Dosanjh has a large and diverse global fanbase, including queer listeners who have long admired his work. As of now, the singer has not issued a public response to the backlash.
The Larger Debate Around Punjabi Music and Masculinity
The controversy surrounding Aroma has reopened an older cultural conversation that Punjabi music has repeatedly faced over the years — its relationship with masculinity, gender stereotypes and casual slurs embedded in lyrics. Punjabi pop culture has long been celebrated for its energetic sound, global reach and deep influence on mainstream Indian music. Artists from the industry now regularly headline international tours, dominate streaming charts and collaborate across borders. Diljit Dosanjh himself is considered one of the genre’s biggest crossover stars, known for balancing commercial success with a carefully crafted public image. But alongside the popularity has come criticism. Scholars, activists and listeners have often pointed out how some songs normalise aggression, objectification and mockery of marginalised identities under the guise of humour or “macho” swagger.
Terms historically used against queer and transgender communities continue to appear casually in colloquial language and entertainment across parts of South Asia. Critics argue that even when artists do not intend direct harm, repeated use of such language helps reinforce stigma. The timing of the backlash has also amplified the conversation. Pride Month, observed globally every June, often sparks wider discussions about representation and accountability in entertainment industries. For many queer listeners, the issue was not simply about one lyric, but about how mainstream music still struggles to move beyond outdated ideas of masculinity.
At the same time, some fans have defended the singer online, arguing that Punjabi lyrics are often interpreted differently outside their cultural context. Others have said the criticism should lead to conversation rather than cancellation. The debate reflects a growing shift in audience expectations. As Indian artists increasingly gain international visibility, listeners are also demanding greater sensitivity around identity, language and representation.
For now, Aroma remains available across streaming platforms, even as the conversation around it continues to intensify online.
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