Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3, featuring Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is skipping its Indian release amid backlash over cross-border casting. Makers claim Hania was cast before geopolitical tensions escalated, but Indian film bodies like FWICE have condemned the move, calling for bans. The film is slated to release overseas — including in Pakistan — on June 27, 2025. Diljit and producers accept potential losses, citing circumstances beyond their control. Overseas release remains on track despite controversy.
Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh's upcoming comedy-horror, Sardaar Ji 3, has been at the center of a stormy debate. The casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir triggered mass uproar in India, leading to a decision by the producers to pull the film from Indian theatres—even as it's set for a global premiere on June 27, 2025, and a separate release in Pakistan.
Timeline of Events
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February 2025: The film was shot, with Hania Aamir cast well before political tensions.
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April 22, 2025: Terror attack in Pahalgam escalated Indo-Pak tensions.
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May 7, 2025: India’s Operation Sindoor further heightened the diplomatic strain.
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Late June: Indian film bodies, led by FWICE, demanded boycotts and penalties, even passport cancellation for Diljit and the producers.
Producers Defend Decision
The team released a statement emphasizing that Hania's casting occurred before the crisis and that removing her now would hardly resolve the core issues. They said they stand with India during these times and won’t release the film or promote it domestically until tensions ease.
Diljit Speaks Out
In a BBC interview, Diljit shared that shooting took place in February when relations were stable, and confirmed the producers knowingly dropped India from the release plan. He acknowledged that this would result in financial loss but stood behind the team's choices and praised Hania's professionalism.
Film Bodies React
FWICE strongly denounced the casting, likening it to disrespect toward national sovereignty, and urged the cancellation of passports for those involved. More broadly, calls to boycott Pakistani artists have intensified—echoing earlier bans post-Uri (2016) and Pulwama (2019)—with streaming platforms geo-blocking Pakistani content under “Operation Sindoor”.
Current Status and Outlook
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No theatrical release or promotion in India.
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International release starts June 27, 2025 (Pakistan included).
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Diljit and producers brace for losses but proceed with overseas rollout.
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Cultural tensions overshadow creative collaborations once again.
Conclusion
The Sardaar Ji 3 controversy highlights how geopolitical dynamics can overshadow artistic endeavors. While the film’s cast and crew remain committed to their creative vision, national sentiments and industry pressures have blocked an Indian release, posing significant business and cultural consequences.
Listen the full interview to get more clarity on the issue and about the current situation.
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