Bangladeshi-American DJ and music producer Sanjay is set to take centre stage at one of the world’s most prestigious sporting spectacles—the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup. The event will be held at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, marking a career-defining moment for the young artist, who will perform alongside global superstars including pop icon Katy Perry and Lisa of the South Korean girl group BLACKPINK.
The opening celebration will precede the United States’ first match of the tournament against Paraguay on 11 June, drawing a global television audience of hundreds of millions. For Sanjay, the opportunity represents not only a personal breakthrough but also a symbolic milestone for South Asian diaspora artists seeking recognition on the international stage.
This year’s World Cup is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with each host nation staging its own opening ceremony featuring a curated line-up of international performers. Sanjay’s inclusion in this elite roster has been widely viewed as a significant acknowledgement of his rising influence in the global music scene.
Featured performers at the opening ceremony
| Name | Profession | Nationality/Association |
|---|---|---|
| Sanjay | DJ & Music Producer | Bangladeshi-American |
| Katy Perry | Pop Singer | United States |
| Lisa | Singer & Performer | Thailand / South Korea (BLACKPINK) |
According to Sanjay, the invitation from FIFA came just two weeks prior to the announcement, leaving him both astonished and deeply honoured. He described the moment as surreal and credited his parents’ dedication and sacrifices as the foundation of his journey.
Born in Srimangal in Sylhet, Sanjay spent his early childhood in the Lovelane area of Chattogram before relocating with his family to Silicon Valley in the United States. It was there that his musical identity began to take shape. His mother was a singer, while his grandmother was also deeply passionate about music, creating a household environment rich in artistic influence.
Despite acknowledging the uncertainties of a career in music—where income and opportunities can fluctuate dramatically—Sanjay chose to pursue the profession full-time after completing his education. He remains committed to showcasing Bengali music and culture on the global stage, aiming to introduce international audiences to the richness of his heritage.
Looking ahead, he has expressed interest in expanding his creative work into the Bangladeshi film industry, even naming actor Shakib Khan as someone he hopes to collaborate with in the future. For Sanjay, the opportunity to share a stage with globally recognised artists is a dream realised, but he emphasises that representing his country is his greatest achievement.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to his supporters, stating that their encouragement continues to serve as his strongest motivation, and adding that this milestone is only the beginning of a much larger journey.