Diljit Dosanjh Breaks Silence on ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Backlash, Defends Working with Hania Aamir Amid Boycott Calls
There is currently no schedule for the film’s release in India.
Indian Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 has sparked major controversy following its trailer release, drawing intense backlash from Indian filmmakers. The film’s lead star, singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, has now addressed the criticism, particularly over his collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) have threatened to boycott both Diljit Dosanjh and the film’s producers. These film bodies have also vowed to halt all plans for the movie’s release in India.
According to the associations, casting a Pakistani artist over Indian talent raises serious concerns about Dosanjh’s loyalty and priorities.
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit responded to the backlash by explaining that when he signed the film, relations between India and Pakistan were stable.
“The shoot took place in February, during a time when everything was fine. But events unfolded afterwards that were beyond anyone’s control,” he said.
He went on to say that the producers have acknowledged the financial losses from not releasing in India, and expressed his support for their plan to move forward with an overseas release.
He acknowledged that skipping an Indian release would be a loss, as they would miss out on a large domestic audience.
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Speaking about his co-star, Diljit praised Hania Aamir as both “a talented actress and highly professional.”
Sardaar Ji 3, a comedy film featuring the duo chasing ghosts, is set for an international release on June 27. While Hania Aamir is seen speaking Punjabi in the trailer, some viewers have claimed her voice was dubbed.
There is currently no schedule for the film’s release in India.
