New Delhi: Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh has found himself in a growing controversy ahead of the release of his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3 in Pakistan. Set to hit Pakistani theatres on June 27, the film features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a lead role — a casting choice that has triggered backlash in India following recent cross-border tensions.
The outrage intensified in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed 26 Indian lives. The timing of Sardaar Ji 3‘s release — and its cross-border cast — has reignited the debate on cultural collaborations during strained political climates.
Singer Mika Singh, known for his outspoken views, was among the first to criticize Dosanjh, initially calling him a “fake singer” for working with a Pakistani actress. However, Mika later issued a more diplomatic message on Instagram, stating:
“Everyone makes mistakes. But there’s one powerful word: Sorry. If Diljit made a mistake, we’re ready to forgive — but he must apologise and remove the objectionable content. Desh pehle!”
Diljit Dosanjh has largely stayed silent, but in a recent BBC Asian Network interview, he noted the film was a long-planned project and emphasized the importance of separating art from politics. As Sardaar Ji 3 prepares to premiere in Pakistan, the uproar highlights the complex intersection of cinema, patriotism, and public emotion in times of political unrest.