Diljit Dosanjh creates history at 2026 Latin Grammys, touches Daddy Yankee's mother's feet in heartwarming moment

Diljit Dosanjh made history at the 27th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, held in Las Vegas on November 12, 2026, by becoming the first Indian and Punjabi artist to perform at the prestigious music ceremony. Sharing the international stage with Puerto Rican reggaeton star Daddy Yankee, Diljit brought Punjabi music to a global audience through their bilingual collaboration, Pokito. Their performance marked an important moment in the growing connection between South Asian and Latin music.

Heartwarming Backstage Meeting

One of the most memorable moments from the event happened backstage when Diljit met Daddy Yankee and his mother, Rosa Rodríguez. In a gesture deeply rooted in Indian culture, Diljit respectfully bent down and touched her feet to seek her blessings. The moment was captured in videos shared across social media platforms, including Instagram and PTC Punjabi.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by PTC Punjabi (@ptcpunjabi)

Fans widely appreciated Diljit's gesture, praising him for staying connected to his Punjabi traditions and cultural values while representing India on an international platform. The meeting was particularly meaningful because Daddy Yankee's album LA POSTAL includes a special tribute to his mother following her recovery from a serious health issue.

The Musical Collaboration: 'Pokito'

Diljit Dosanjh and Daddy Yankee came together for Pokito, a bilingual Punjabi-reggaeton track featured on Daddy Yankee's album LA POSTAL. The song blends Punjabi bhangra rhythms with Puerto Rican reggaeton beats, creating a unique combination of two different musical styles.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by PTC Punjabi (@ptcpunjabi)

The collaboration reflects the growing popularity of international music partnerships and demonstrates how artists can connect audiences across languages and cultures.

High-Energy Performance at the Latin Grammys

The two artists performed Pokito as part of Daddy Yankee's special Person of the Year tribute medley. The spectacular musical segment celebrated Daddy Yankee's contribution to the global music industry and featured several international stars, including LL Cool J, Bizarrap, Feid, Bad Gyal and French Montana.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

The performance brought tremendous energy to the Las Vegas audience. The Associated Press described the overall tribute as a memorable musical celebration, highlighting its dynamic performances and impressive stage transitions.

Major Milestones for Both Artists

The evening was historic for both singers. Diljit became the first Indian artist to perform at the Latin Grammys, further expanding the international presence of Punjabi music. His appearance also added to his impressive record of global achievements following his landmark Coachella performance in 2023.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TEAM DOSANJH (@teamdiljitglobal)

Daddy Yankee, meanwhile, became the first reggaeton and Latin urbano artist to receive the Latin Recording Academy's Person of the Year award. The honour recognised his contribution to popularising reggaeton worldwide. The award was presented by international pop star Janet Jackson.

New Chapter in Global Music

Diljit Dosanjh and Daddy Yankee's collaboration represents more than just a musical partnership. It celebrates cultural diversity, artistic creativity and the power of music to bring people together. From Diljit's traditional gesture towards Daddy Yankee's mother to their energetic performance of Pokito, the evening created a special moment for both Punjabi and Latin music.

Their historic appearance has opened new possibilities for cross-cultural collaborations and demonstrated that music can connect people beyond geographical, cultural and language barriers.

- PTC PUNJABI