After taking a swipe at Diljit Dosanjh over 'Sardaar Ji 3' row, Guru Randhawa shuts down his X account

Singer Guru Randhawa has deactivated his X account following backlash over a cryptic message that appeared to target fellow artist Diljit Dosanjh amid the controversy surrounding his upcoming film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’.

The film, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, has sparked outrage across social media, especially in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. While Guru did not name anyone in his now-deleted post, users quickly linked the remarks to Diljit and the casting of Aamir.

In his post, Guru wrote: “Lakh pardesi hoyieee, Apna desh nhi bhandi daa. Jehre mulk da khayie, us da bura nhi mangi da.” He continued in English: “Even if now your citizenship is not Indian but you were born here, please remember this. This country made great artists and we all are proud of it. Please be proud of where you were born.”

The message went viral, drawing a flood of criticism, particularly from Diljit’s fanbase. Many were quick to call out the perceived hypocrisy, pointing to Guru’s own hit track ‘Lagdi Lahore Di’, which they claimed glorified Pakistan. As the online outrage intensified, Guru deactivated his account without further comment.

Industry divided

The ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ controversy gained momentum after the trailer dropped on 22 June, revealing Hania Aamir as part of the cast. The film officially released in overseas markets today but has skipped an India release due to the backlash and ongoing restrictions against Pakistani artists. Following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reiterated its ban on Pakistani nationals working in the Indian film industry.

Singers like Mika Singh and B Praak also weighed in on social media, taking a strong pro-India stance and echoing sentiments of national pride.

Diljit defends the film

In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit addressed the controversy directly. Defending the timing of the project, he said: “At the time the film was made, the situation was OK. After that, a lot has happened that is beyond our control.”

The film was reportedly shot in February, before the attack in Pahalgam altered the political and emotional climate. Speaking about his decision to proceed with the release, Diljit, who also served as one of the producers, said pulling the film entirely would have caused significant financial loss. “Everything was fine,” he reiterated, explaining that major investments had already been committed to the project by the time tensions escalated.

Though ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ is currently screening in international markets, its future in India remains uncertain amid continuing debates about art, diplomacy, and national loyalty.