Punjabi music icon and Bollywood star Diljit Dosanjh has never been one to shy away from bold choices. Whether it’s through his international music collaborations, or acting in grounded, issue-based cinema, he’s built a brand that’s as culturally rooted as it is global in appeal.
Now, in 2025, he’s battling two storms at once: a creative war with the censor board over Panjab ’95 and a cross-border casting controversy linked to Sardaar Ji 3.
Let’s break down why these twin challenges have become more than just film industry gossip—they’ve sparked a nationwide debate on art, history, and identity.
Panjab ’95: A Film Too Powerful for Comfort?
Panjab ’95 is not your regular biopic. It tells the chilling story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a real-life Sikh human rights activist who uncovered thousands of illegal cremations by the Punjab Police during the dark post-1984 era. Khalra paid the ultimate price—he was abducted, tortured, and allegedly killed.
The film was completed and selected for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) under the title Punjab ’95, where it reportedly received a standing ovation. International media praised its courage and emotional depth. Yet, back home, it was met with a different fate.
The CBFC’s 127-cut directive is seen by critics and filmmakers as an attempt to dilute the film’s message. Removing references to Punjab, real names, and political figures, they argue, strips the film of its soul. Director Honey Trehan, known for his sharp, uncompromising narratives, publicly voiced his frustration, stating:
“Where is the democracy if you can’t express through art?”
For Diljit, the film is a passion project. Playing Khalra was, according to insiders, his most intense performance to date. His brooding, fatigued look in the film’s poster reflects not just Khalra’s pain but perhaps the pain of telling the truth in today’s world.
Sardaar Ji 3: Patriotism, Politics & Popcorn
On the flip side is Sardaar Ji 3, a fantasy-comedy adventure that should have been a crowd-pleaser. But its India release was abruptly halted when Hania Aamir, a well-known Pakistani actress, was revealed as the female lead.
Several film associations, including FWICE and AICWA, accused Diljit of being “anti-national” for working with a Pakistani artist. This is despite the film being shot much earlier—before political tensions reignited.
Calls were made to boycott Diljit, ban his future films, and even have him removed from Border 2, another major project in the works.
The irony, as pointed out by many film fans and industry professionals, is striking. Here’s an actor representing India at Coachella, collaborating with international stars like Sia and Ed Sheeran, actively promoting Punjabi language and culture globally, yet being painted unpatriotic for a casting decision.
The Industry Reacts: “Let Art Breathe”
The backlash sparked sharp reactions from actors and directors who rallied behind Dosanjh.
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, speaking to a film magazine, said:
“You cannot measure patriotism by who you act with. Artists must be allowed to collaborate across borders—it’s how we heal.”
Young stars like Sonakshi Sinha and Ali Fazal also voiced support, urging India to be a champion of artistic freedom, not a gatekeeper.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was reportedly briefed about the Panjab ’95 censorship issue. Sources suggest his government may back the film’s uncut release, citing the importance of historical truth and freedom of expression.
What This Means for Diljit — and Bollywood
Despite the controversies, one thing is clear: Diljit Dosanjh is unstoppable.
His star continues to rise internationally, with music tours, Netflix documentaries, and growing fanbases in the U.S., UK, and Canada. His refusal to conform to safe, sanitized storytelling is earning him admiration, especially among Gen Z viewers looking for real stories and fearless voices.
And if Panjab ’95 clears its censorship battle, it may just do what Article 15 or The Kashmir Files did—spark a national dialogue that goes beyond the screen.
Jay-Ho! Verdict: Brave, Bruised, and Still Bold
Diljit is walking a tightrope between truth and trouble, art and approval, nationalism and nuance.
But that’s exactly what makes this moment in his career so defining.
He’s not just making music. He’s not just making movies. He’s making a statement.
As Panjab ’95 fights its way to theaters, and Sardaar Ji 3 continues winning over overseas audiences, Diljit Dosanjh is proving that real stardom isn’t about just fame—it’s about fearlessness.
Jay-Ho! salutes the spirit of storytelling that doesn’t bend, even when it breaks.
