SardaarJi 3 Controversy – Diljit Dosanjh’s Bold Stand Sparks Debate
Diljit Dosanjh, one of the most celebrated names in Punjabi and Hindi cinema, has found himself at the center of a major controversy. The release of his latest film, Sardaar Ji 3, was halted in India after the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The decision to ban the film has triggered a wave of reactions from fans, industry experts, and the public, raising questions about cross-border collaborations, national sentiment, and the role of the private sector in the entertainment industry. This article explores what led to the controversy, who supported Diljit Dosanjh, and how much truth lies behind the accusations.
The SardaarJi 3 Controversy, What Happened?
The controversy started when the Sardaar Ji 3 trailer was made public and it was revealed that Hania Aamir, a Pakistani actress, had been chosen to play the lead role. The timing was particularly sensitive, as tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. I
n response, Diljit Dosanjh was called a “traitor” for collaborating with a Pakistani artist, and a number of film organizations and segments of the public demanded a boycott of the movie.
The backlash was swift. The film’s producers decided not to release Sardaar Ji 3 in India, opting instead for an overseas launch. Despite the ban, the film received an overwhelming response in Pakistan and other international markets, collecting over ₹11 crore worldwide within two days of release[1][3]. Videos shared by Diljit on social media showed packed theaters and enthusiastic audiences in Pakistan, highlighting the film’s cross-border appeal.
Why Was the Film Banned in India?
The decision to ban Sardaar Ji 3 in India was rooted in the heightened political climate and public sentiment following the Pahalgam attack. Many argued that featuring a Pakistani actress in a major Punjabi film was insensitive and unpatriotic.
Prominent filmmakers were urged in a letter by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees and other industry associations to remove Diljit Dosanjh from upcoming projects, such as the eagerly anticipated Border 2.
However, the film’s co-producer, Gunbir Singh Sidhu, clarified that the movie was shot months before the attack, at a time when relations between the two countries were relatively stable.
He emphasized that the decision to cast Hania Aamir was made in good faith and that the production team had no control over subsequent political developments. Sidhu also announced that, moving forward, he would not collaborate with Pakistani artists, acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue.
The Diljit Dosanjh controversy has caused division in the entertainment industry. Some strongly supported him, while others chastised him for his involvement. “I stand firmly with Diljit,” said veteran Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah in a public defense of Diljit. I
t was the director, not him, who made the casting decisions for the film. However, no one is aware of his identity, while Diljit is well-known worldwide and accepted the cast because his mind is not tainted.
BJP leader and actor Hobby Dhaliwal also voiced his support, saying, “Punjab, Punjabi, and Punjabiyat are with you, Diljit.” He highlighted that many Pakistani artists have previously worked in India and that art should not be held hostage to politics.
On the other hand, some sections of the public and industry remain critical, arguing that the private sector should be more mindful of national sentiment, especially when cash and investments are at stake. The debate has underscored the complex relationship between art, commerce, and patriotism in today’s globalized world.
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So, how much truth is there to the accusations against Diljit Dosanjh? According to statements from the film’s producers and Diljit himself, the casting of Hania Aamir was finalized long before the political situation deteriorated.
The film was shot in the UK in February-March 2025, during a period of relative calm between India and Pakistan. Diljit and the producers have emphasized that the choice to release the movie abroad was taken in order to safeguard the substantial financial outlay.
“In direct response to the controversy, Diljit Dosanjh stated, “Everything was fine when this film was made.” When we shot it in February, everything was normal. Many significant events that are beyond our control occurred after that.
The producers therefore made the decision to release the movie abroad because it is clearly not currently available in India. There was no such problem during the film’s production, and the producers have made significant financial investments.
Naseeruddin Shah, veteran actor:
“I firmly support Diljit. He’s been waiting for an opportunity to be attacked by the Jumla Party’s dirty tricks department. It was the director, not him, who made the casting decisions for the film. However, no one is aware of his identity, while Diljit is well-known worldwide and accepted the cast because his mind is…
Naseeruddin Shah SUPPORTS Diljit Dosanjh, blames director for …
Numerous supporters have praised Diljit Dosanjh’s professionalism and dedication to his craft on social media. Others, however, continue to question the wisdom of cross-border collaborations in the current climate. Both sides have strong opinions, and the debate is still going strong.
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The Diljit Dosanjh Sardaar Ji 3 controversy highlights the challenges artists face in a world where politics and entertainment often collide. While the decision to ban the film in India has disappointed many fans, it has also sparked important conversations about art, patriotism, and the role of the private sector.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Diljit Dosanjh remains a powerful and influential figure in the world of cinema, unafraid to stand by his work and his principles. For those who believe in the power of art to bridge divides, this story is a reminder to look beyond borders and focus on what unites us.
If you want to stay updated on the latest news about Diljit Dosanjh and the evolving world of Punjabi cinema, keep following our coverage for more in-depth analysis and expert insights.
In Sardaar Ji 3, who is the Pakistani actress?
Hania Aamir, a popular Pakistani actress, played the female lead in the film
Why was Diljit Dosanjh called a traitor?
Some people labeled him a traitor for working with a Pakistani actress in Sardaar Ji 3, especially after recent tensions between India and Pakistan
For what reason was the Sardaar Ji 3 Boycott in India?
The film was banned due to public backlash over the casting of a Pakistani actress following the Pahalgam attack and rising political tensions
Did any Bollywood or Pollywood celebrities support Diljit Dosanjh?
Yes, several prominent figures, including Naseeruddin Shah and Hobby Dhaliwal, publicly supported Diljit Dosanjh
Before or after the Pahalgam attack, was the movie filmed?
The film was shot before the attack, during a period of normal relations between India and Pakistan
Sources:
[1] Sardaar Ji 3: Diljit Dosanjh shares public response in Pakistan amid …
[2]Amid Sardaar Ji 3 Row, BJP Leader Hobby Dhaliwal Supports Diljit …
[3] ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ controversy: Diljit Dosanjh shares reaction from …
[4] Sardaar Ji 3 co-producer Gunbir Singh Sidhu criticises Pakistani …
[5] Naseeruddin Shah SUPPORTS Diljit Dosanjh, blames director for …
[6] Naseeruddin Shah Deletes His Facebook Post Hours After … – NDTV
[7] Diljit Dosanjh at Met Gala 2025: Cartier Watch, Bracelet & …