Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has spoken out for the first time about the controversy surrounding his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. The film features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a supporting role, which has led to heavy criticism, especially after the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
Why the Film is Facing Backlash
Tensions between India and Pakistan worsened after the terror attack in Pahalgam this past April. In response, the Indian government banned Pakistani artists from appearing in Indian films or shows and also restricted access to their social media accounts within India.
Amidst this strained atmosphere, Sardaar Ji 3 became the center of attention because it stars Hania Aamir, a well-known Pakistani actress. Many people criticized Dosanjh Dosanjh for going ahead with the film’s release, saying it was insensitive given the recent events.
Diljit Dosanjh Responds to the Criticism
Speaking to BBC Asian Network, Diljit explained that the film was shot well before the Pahalgam incident. He said the situation between the two countries was normal when he signed the film.
“The movie was filmed in February. At that time, everything was fine. No one could have predicted what would happen later,” Diljit shared. “After the attack, the producers realized they could no longer release the movie in India. But they had already spent a lot of money, so they decided to release it overseas.”
He admitted that the producers would suffer financial losses due to this. “By skipping the Indian release, they are cutting off a huge market. Of course, there will be losses,” he added.
Standing by the Film and His Team
Diljit also made it clear that he stands by his team’s decision. “The truth is, when I signed the project, everything was okay. Now, the producers are taking a tough call to release it abroad, and I have to support them,” he said.
Talking about his co-star Hania Aamir, Diljit said, “She is very professional and easy to work with. I don’t get too involved with anyone personally—I’m a private person.”
Mixed Reactions Online
Diljit shared the trailer of Sardaar Ji 3 on his social media accounts, and it received a mixed response. While many fans showed excitement for the film, others criticized him for working with a Pakistani actor in the current climate. Later, Diljit posted a teaser of a song from the movie that featured Hania Aamir, but he took it down soon after receiving backlash.
Not the First Controversy
This isn’t the first time a film has been affected by rising India-Pakistan tensions. After the Pahalgam attack, the film Abir Gulal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was banned in India. Fawad’s return to Indian cinema after nine years was cut short, continuing the pattern that began after the Uri attack in 2016.
Diljit’s response shows that the decision to release Sardaar Ji 3 overseas wasn’t taken lightly. The film’s timing, unfortunately, collided with real-world events, and now it’s caught in the middle of a political storm.
