‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Pulled from Indian Release Amid Controversy, Diljit Dosanjh Breaks Silence: “It’s Beyond My Control”

Backlash over casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and rising post-attack tensions force makers to opt for international release only; Diljit Dosanjh says the film was shot before any unrest

25 June 2025, New Delhi

Diljit Dosanjh’s highly anticipated film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ has found itself at the center of a political and public storm. Following intense backlash over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, the film will no longer be released in India. Instead, the producers have opted for an international-only release, citing the current socio-political climate.

The controversy erupted shortly after the film’s trailer was unveiled on June 24. While fans welcomed the release with excitement, criticism quickly followed—particularly in light of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. The attack severely strained India-Pakistan relations and reignited opposition to artistic collaborations involving Pakistani talent. In response, several film associations in India demanded a ban on the movie’s domestic release.

As the backlash grew, Diljit Dosanjh broke his silence, offering his perspective in an interview with BBC Asian Network. “This film was shot in February 2025, well before the Pahalgam incident. At that time, everything was calm. What happened afterward is beyond our control,” he said. “There was significant investment in this project, and the producers were trying to avoid heavy losses.”

Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh Faces Backlash Over Pakistani Actress in Film, Passport Revocation Demanded

Expressing full support for the producers, Dosanjh added, “When I signed the film, there was no controversy. Now, the situation has changed. If the filmmakers believe an international release is the best option, I respect and stand by that decision.”

At the heart of the controversy is Hania Aamir’s role in the film. Many critics argue that engaging Pakistani artists after a deadly terror attack sends the wrong message. This sentiment has led to strong calls for restricting the film’s screening within India, which eventually influenced the final distribution plan.

With the domestic release scrapped, all eyes now turn to how ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ performs in international markets. For Indian audiences, however, the wait to see the film may be long—or possibly permanent.

Also Read: ‘He Carries India’s Hopes’: PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi Hail Shubhanshu Shukla’s Mission to ISS