Diljit Dosanjh’s latest cinematic release, Sardaar Ji 3, has become more than just a film. It is a cultural flashpoint. Starring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and released in Pakistan and various international markets, the film was deliberately withheld from Indian cinemas amidst growing political tensions between India and Pakistan. The decision has triggered fierce backlash in India while winning praise and drawing packed audiences across Pakistan.
The Film and the Fallout
Sardaar Ji 3 was completed earlier this year, well before the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that reignited tensions between the two nations. The film premiered on June 27, 2025, in Pakistan, the UAE, Canada, the UK, and other overseas regions, but was notably not released in India.
The absence of an Indian release was a strategic decision by the producers, made in anticipation of potential backlash and consideration of the sensitive political climate.
The Indian Backlash
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) condemned the release strategy and demanded strict action against Diljit, including his removal from upcoming Bollywood projects such as Border 2.
Social media platforms were flooded with criticism. Many users accused Diljit of being unpatriotic, with some calling for a complete boycott of his work. The casting of a Pakistani actress in a lead role further intensified the criticism.
However, several prominent voices, including Naseeruddin Shah and Javed Akhtar, defended Diljit. They argued that art should not be constrained by political boundaries and emphasized that the film’s production concluded before tensions escalated.
Pakistan’s Standing Ovation
In contrast to the backlash in India, Sardaar Ji 3 has achieved overwhelming success in Pakistan. It has become the highest-grossing Indian release in the country this year. Cinemas reported sold-out shows and enthusiastic audience responses.
Diljit shared videos on social media capturing the excitement in Pakistani theaters, where audiences cheered and celebrated the film. Pakistani television personalities, including Nadia Khan, praised him for his bold move and described him as an artist who values creativity beyond borders.
Diljit’s Clarification
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit clarified the timeline and intentions behind the release.
“We finished the shoot in February. What happened after that was beyond anyone’s control. We released the film where we could, respecting the current sentiments.”
He explained.
The producers supported his statement, affirming that the decision to skip the Indian release was made out of respect, not defiance.
Global Spotlight
While the debate continues in India, Diljit’s international presence is growing. Toronto Metropolitan University recently introduced a case study on his influence in global pop culture, exploring how he navigates the intersection of art, identity, and political discourse.
Final Word
Sardaar Ji 3 has unintentionally become a symbol of South Asia’s divided cultural narrative. While one side celebrates the film as a progressive artistic move, the other condemns it as insensitive.
For Diljit Dosanjh, it was a risky choice that earned him global applause and domestic criticism. Yet, this situation reinforces a powerful truth. Cinema still retains the unique ability to transcend boundaries, even those drawn by politics and conflict.
