Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh is facing criticism online after a lyric from his song ‘Aroma’ was accused of using language considered derogatory towards transgender and gender-nonconforming people.

The controversy gained widespread attention on June 1, coinciding with the beginning of Pride Month, as social media users began scrutinising a verse from the track and questioning the message they believe it conveys about masculinity, courage and gender identity.

Released on April 23, ‘Aroma’ is a collaboration between Dosanjh, lyricist Raj Ranjodh and music producer Tru-Skool. While the song had been available for several weeks, debate around its lyrics intensified only after translations of a particular Punjabi verse started circulating online.

Social media criticism grows during Pride Month

Much of the criticism centres on a line that listeners say appears to draw a distinction between masculinity and a term commonly viewed as a slur against transgender individuals.

According to translations shared by users online, the verse has been interpreted as suggesting that bravery and courage are associated with men, while using a derogatory expression to describe the opposite. Critics argue that such wording perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces prejudiced attitudes towards transgender and gender-diverse communities.

The timing of the debate has amplified the reaction, with many users pointing out that the discussion emerged at the start of Pride Month, a period dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ identities and raising awareness about issues affecting the community.

Content creators call out the lyrics

Among those speaking out was content creator Faith Michael, who shared an Instagram reel expressing disappointment with the song.

"The queer community did not expect this from you," Faith said.

Faith explained that ‘Aroma’ had been part of their regular playlist and that they only became aware of the lyric's meaning after seeing discussions online.

"I translated the whole song. So apparently the song is about celebrating the idea of traditional masculinity and the best way to glorify masculinity is by putting the queer community down."

Faith further added, "I seriously did not expect this from Diljit Dosanjh. He's working in the entertainment industry which is built, shaped and sustained by countless queer people. Did nobody question the lyrics before it was released? Did no one stop to think about the message it sends? Hope there's an explanation because being a chakka or hijra is not the same as being weak."

Several other creators also criticised the song, with some questioning why the issue had not received wider attention. Another content creator addressed Dosanjh directly in a video, saying, "We expected a little more from you," while noting that the singer also has LGBTQ+ fans who admire his work.

Debate spreads across social media platforms

As clips discussing the lyrics gained traction, the controversy quickly expanded beyond Instagram and onto X, where users debated the meaning of the verse and its broader implications.

A number of listeners said they had enjoyed the song without fully understanding the Punjabi lyrics. Their views changed after translations and explanations began circulating widely online, prompting fresh scrutiny of the track.

Critics argued that language associating courage with masculinity while belittling gender-nonconforming identities can contribute to discrimination and exclusion. Others called on artists with large audiences to be more mindful of the language used in their music.

Actor Manish Poonam was among the public figures who criticised the lyric. Sharing his reaction on Instagram Stories, he wrote: "Courage and men don’t go along each other. Hoping this move would make you more of a man. Shame."

The criticism continues to generate discussion online, with users debating whether the lyric reflects outdated social attitudes or has been misinterpreted in translation.

Dosanjh has not publicly addressed the controversy or responded to the criticism surrounding ‘Aroma’.