Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Sardaar Ji 3' has sparked controversy over the inclusion of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Dosanjh responded by stating, "Art has no boundaries."
Sardaar Ji 3: Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh is once again in the headlines, but this time, not for a new film, but for a politically and culturally charged controversy surrounding it. The presence of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film, 'Sardaar Ji 3,' has ignited a firestorm in India. The hashtag '#BoycottDiljit' is trending on social media, and cinema organizations are demanding a ban on his projects. Dosanjh, however, offers a different perspective on the controversy.
What is the root of the controversy?
'Sardaar Ji 3' is a Punjabi film featuring Diljit Dosanjh alongside popular Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. This announcement triggered a wave of online protest. Many users deemed it "against India's national identity," questioning why an Indian artist would collaborate with a Pakistani artist at a time of strained India-Pakistan political relations.
FWICE registers b objection
BN Tiwari, President of FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees), stated in a press release that Diljit Dosanjh has "insulted Indian soldiers and their sacrifices." He commented:
"Prioritizing a Pakistani actress goes against the loyalty to our nation and soldiers. It is unfortunate that an Indian artist, who became a star thanks to the Indian public, is now giving opportunities to artists from a hostile nation."
FWICE has demanded a ban on not only 'Sardaar Ji 3' but also all of Dosanjh's projects in India.
Dosanjh's statement: Art has no boundaries
While Dosanjh hasn't directly addressed the controversy, he indirectly conveyed his stance during an interview. Speaking with Grammy President Panos A. Panay, Dosanjh said:
"The world is currently in a state of war, but we have no control over these circumstances. Music is a force that unites nations. I consider myself fortunate to be a part of art that transcends borders and connects people."
He further added:
"We should think beyond nations and focus on Mother Earth. Borders are part of this Earth. Politics is a separate domain, and I don't want to speak without understanding it. Every moment is precious to me, and I want to live it with positivity."
Trailer release and calls for boycott in India
The trailer for 'Sardaar Ji 3' was recently released but has been blocked in India. The film's release is scheduled for June 27, 2025, outside India, but its release in India remains unconfirmed.
Following the trailer release, #BoycottDiljit gained momentum on social media. While some praise Dosanjh's "borderless vision," others accuse him of anti-national sentiment.
Audience opinion divided
Public opinion on this controversy is sharply divided:
- Some applaud Dosanjh's "borderless vision," while
- Others label him as promoting anti-national sentiment and demand his removal from films.
Some even call for his removal from upcoming patriotic films.
Hania Aamir's role?
Pakistani actress Hania Aamir already enjoys a degree of popularity in India on social media. However, given India-Pakistan relations, casting a Pakistani artist in an Indian film invariably sparks social and political debate. Hania's presence in Diljit Dosanjh's film has reignited this debate.
Dosanjh receives international recognition
Meanwhile, Toronto Metropolitan University in Canada has launched a course dedicated to Diljit Dosanjh. This course focuses on his musical and cultural impact, highlighting his status as a global icon.
