Diljit Dosanjh Transforms Auckland Concert into Family Celebration

Diljit Dosanjh, one of the most prominent figures in South Asian music, captivated audiences at Auckland’s Spark Arena on a lively Thursday night. The concert, part of his 2025 Aura Tour, drew fans from various age groups, showcasing his status as a global Punjabi pop icon. This performance marked Dosanjh’s second visit to Auckland following his successful 2023 Born to Shine tour, which had sold out venues across Australia.

Before taking the stage, fans eagerly anticipated the show, knowing that Dosanjh holds the distinction of being the first Punjabi artist to perform at Coachella in 2023. He also set a record earlier in Australia, selling over 90,000 tickets across six cities, a feat unprecedented for an Indian artist. The atmosphere was electric as the audience, many donning white turbans in a nod to Dosanjh’s heritage, prepared for an unforgettable experience.

As the lights dimmed, a short film featuring scenes of India played on giant screens, culminating in a voiceover that declared Dosanjh an “icon whose aura shines across the world.” The stage then erupted with smoke, and he made a dramatic entrance, launching into his hit song ‘Born to Shine’. Dressed in his signature kurta-tamba ensemble and a perfectly tied turban, Dosanjh exuded charisma from the moment he stepped onto the stage.

The performance quickly escalated into a vibrant celebration, with his bhangra troupe electrifying the audience during the opening number, ‘Case’. The setlist was a dynamic blend of fan favorites, including ‘Do You Know’, ‘Clash’, and the infectious ‘Hass Hass’, featuring Sia. Dosanjh’s ability to merge traditional Punjabi sounds with contemporary music styles, such as trap beats and pop elements, resonated deeply with attendees.

Midway through the concert, Dosanjh paid homage to Punjab’s folk legacy by performing classics from the late Amar Singh Chamkila, bridging generational gaps. He seamlessly transitioned between Punjabi and English, engaging with the crowd and expressing gratitude for their support. The evening transformed into a full-fledged Punjabi party, complete with smoke cannons, lasers, and an enthusiastic audience.

After a brief intermission, Dosanjh returned dressed in a tank top and bomber jacket, signaling the high-energy second half of the concert. He powered through popular tracks like ‘GOAT’, ‘Kinni Kinni’, and ‘Kafur’, prompting the crowd to rise to their feet. Singalong moments erupted during songs such as ‘Vibe’ and ‘Water’, further igniting the atmosphere.

In a display of his versatility, Dosanjh showcased his softer side with the heartfelt ‘Ikk Kudi’, bringing a moment of silence to the arena. He also ventured into Bollywood territory with the lively ‘Choli Ke Peeche’, and his track ‘Naina’ from the upcoming film Crew delighted fans familiar with Hindi cinema.

Throughout the evening, Dosanjh made a concerted effort to connect with his younger audience members, frequently reaching out to children at the front of the stage. One fan noted, “I’ve never seen this many kids on stage at a concert!” highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere that permeated the event.

The concert concluded with an emotional tribute to Punjab and Amar Singh Chamkila. As Dosanjh performed ‘Ishq Mitaye’, he declared his identity as “Punjab,” creating a moment of unity among fans in Spark Arena. This concert was not just a performance; it was a celebration of culture, tradition, and music, transforming the venue into a vibrant family reunion under the shining aura of Diljit Dosanjh.