Diljit Dosanjh has finally spoken up about the controversy surrounding Sardaar Ji 3. The Punjabi film, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, will not be released in Indian cinemas and is now set for an overseas-only release.
There’s a growing backlash from Indian film bodies, including the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), since the trailer release. The anger intensified after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians lost their lives. The presence of a Pakistani artist in an Indian production reignited protests.
Diljit Dosanjh On Sardaar Ji 3 controversy
Speaking to BBC Asian Network, Diljit said the film was completed long before political tensions escalated. He shared, “Jab yeh film bani thi tab situation sab theek tha. We shot this in February and then everything was fine. Uske baad, bhut saari badi cheezen humare haath mein nahi hai.”
He added that the final decision was made by the producers. The singer-actor explained, “Toh producers ne decide kiya ki film obviously ab India toh nahi lagegi, toh overseas release karte hain. Toh producers ka bahut paisa laga hua hai aur jab yeh film bann rahi thi tab aisa kuch tha nahi. Now the situation is not in our hands. So if the producers want to release it abroad, I support them.”
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FWICE President BN Tiwari strongly criticised the actor and said, “By working with a Pakistani actor, Diljit has hurt Indian sentiments. He has disrespected the sentiments of the nation and insulted the sacrifice of our brave soldiers.”
Sardaar Ji 3 is now set to hit international screens on June 27, completely bypassing Indian theatres. Directed by Amarjit Singh Saron, the film is the third in the popular Sardaar Ji franchise. Diljit returns as the quirky ghost-hunter. He teams up with Hania Aamir and Neeru Bajwa this time. The cast also includes Manav Vij, Gulshan Grover, Jasmin Bajwa, and Sapna Pabbi.
The story is set in the UK and follows Diljit’s character as he helps clear out a haunted mansion. While the film sticks to its mix of comedy and supernatural fun, the controversy has cast a long shadow over its release.
Diljit On His Met Gala 2025 Moment
Amid the chaos, Diljit also reflected on his emotional appearance at the Met Gala 2025. He shared a personal moment with Priyanka Chopra, who offered him support. He recalled PeeCee saying, ‘Diljit, I’m sitting right here. If you need anything at all, just call PC, and I’ll be there in a flash.”
Diljit’s look (designed by Prabal Gurung) honoured Punjabi culture. He wore a turban, kurta, and tehmat, along with royal-inspired jewellery. He said, “I cried when I thought of my look, that I would wear an outfit with the Punjab flag on my back and Gurmukhi script written on it.”
