Diljit Dosanjh’s next release, Sardaar Ji 3, a twist-based horror-comedy, was shot in February, long before the unfortunate Pahalgam attack in April. The situation was serene back then, and casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir was an artistic decision, not political. Filmmakers have explained this openly, asserting they had no say in what transpired later.
In spite of the growing India–Pakistan tensions, the team fulfilled their promise. They opted to skip an India release in deference to national sentiment but continued to release it abroad, sustaining financial losses and maintaining artistic freedom.
Diljit’s Brave Stand: Speaking Truth with Grace
At the center of this furor stands Diljit, who reacted with dignity and calmness. In an interview with BBC Asian Network, he elaborated, “When I joined the film, everything was okay. It was filmed in February. After the attack, the producers thought releasing it in India would offend sentiments, so they opted for overseas only. They are expecting loss, but I am backing them.”
He explained Hania affectionately: “Hania is good, very professional. I’m very private; I don’t mix much,” indicating that this was strictly a professional partnership.
India Has His Back: Voices of Support
Even with some criticism, there have been plenty of influential voices defending Diljit:
Chetan Bhagat defended him at an NDTV gathering, stating, “I love Diljit… He sticks to his principles… Banning a film penalizes 300 people; it’s unfair.”
Sonali Singh, his previous manager, praised him as an “ambassador of India” through his heart and art. She fiercely came to his defense, branding the criticism “disheartening and unfair.”
Even outside India, Toronto Metropolitan University is introducing a course on Diljit’s cultural and musical legacy, emphasizing his international reach in the midst of controversy.
Critics Speak, But Diljit’s Fans Respond with Joy
Yes, some critics, such as Puneet Issar and Shekhar Suman, complained about cross-border casting following the Pahalgam tragedy. And some web voices called for a boycott. Yet Diljit’s fans swamped social media with affection, commenting, “He’s our star,” and “Movies, music, and cricket unite, not divide.” Plenty saw his choice of casting as a defense of artistic freedom, not political propaganda.
In Pakistan, television talk show host Nadia Khan praised Diljit as a “Sikh brother” who has the guts to defend his casting choice.
More Than Just a Film, Courage Over Controversy
This controversy is not limited to Sardaar Ji 3. It resonates on a larger level:
- Art vs. Politics: Diljit demonstrates that art can prevail; cinema and music are not political weapons.
- Public Opinion: He decided not to release the film in India, giving national respect priority.
- World Pride: He’s proudly represented Indian culture at Cannes, Coachella, Jimmy Fallon, and now he’s breaking barriers with Canadian university courses.
India Supports Him
Diljit hasn’t only represented India with pride on grand stages; he’s practiced his values:
Taking care of poor children and the elderly through his Saanjh Foundation.
Hoisting the Indian flag at Coachella, Cannes, the Met Gala, and on Jimmy Fallon’s show.
Declining profit at the cost of principle, although it means Sardaar Ji 3 will not open in India and will forfeit up to 40% of its budget.
Now it’s India’s turn to send a decisive message: we support Diljit. We know that this film was produced prior to political tensions, with respect in mind; his values are inscribed in the unity and world pride of India.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Sardaar Ji 3 is only a film, a work of art produced prior to politics intruding into it. Diljit Dosanjh, our international star, played it safe; he shot early, adhered to national feelings, and went the overseas way. He didn’t conceal himself; he clarified. He didn’t flee; he respected.
Now we stand with him, respect is in our hearts. He’s not just an artist: he’s evidence that India’s spirit glows on every stage and screen. Diljit is our star. India stands with him.