Amid growing controversy surrounding the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3, Indian actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh has broken his silence. The backlash stems from heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, after the April Pahalgam terrorist attack, which led to an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in India, which affected the entertainment industry.
Diljit Dosanjh finally opened up about the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3
Addressing the matter, Diljit clarified that when the film was being shot, no such controversies or political concerns were clouding the project. He mentioned that the film was shot in February when the India–Pakistan climate was stable. The Sardaar Ji franchise lead said,
ADVERTISEMENT
“Everything was fine at the time of shooting,”
However, he acknowledged that circumstances have since changed due to factors “beyond control.”
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit shared,
“When we made the film, everything was fine… then things happened that weren’t in our control. The producers decided it couldn’t release in India anymore”
Defending the film’s producers, Diljit highlighted their financial commitment to the movie. He said,
Advertisment
“The producers have invested a lot of money… So if they want to release it abroad, I support them.”
His statement hints at the possibility of Sardaar Ji 3 getting an international release, bypassing India. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reportedly urged the CBFC to withhold certification, citing the film’s inclusion of Pakistani talent. This prompted the decision to opt for an overseas-only release.
ADVERTISEMENT
View this post on Instagram
Social media has been abuzz, with some netizens condemning Diljit as indifferent to national sentiment.
Diljit praised Hania’s work
Diljit spoke positively of Hania Aamir’s professionalism, he said,
ADVERTISEMENT
“She’s very good… I really respect her work and her privacy. I’m also private—conversations are to the point, nothing more.”
The controversy of casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir
The casting of Hania Aamir, a popular Pakistani actress known for her roles in both television and cinema, has sparked a debate among audiences and political groups, some of whom view the collaboration as insensitive given current cross-border sentiments.
However, supporters argue that art should rise above politics and that cinema should be a space for collaboration, not division.
Sardaar Ji 3 is set to premiere internationally on June 27. As the film nears its release, all eyes are now on whether the film will find its way to Indian screens or if it will opt for a global premiere to avoid further controversy.
What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments.
