The trailer for the upcoming horror-comedy ‘Sardaar Ji 3,’ starring Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa, has sparked controversy online following the appearance of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in a leading role. With the film set to release overseas on June 27, a section of the internet has expressed anger over Dosanjh’s decision to collaborate with Pakistani artists amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.

Alongside Aamir, the film also features Pakistani actors Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar and Saleem Albela. While fans were initially excited about the third instalment of the ‘Sardaar Ji’ franchise, many have now taken to Reddit and other platforms to express disappointment and outrage at the casting choices.

Online backlash grows

Reddit users have voiced strong reactions. One post titled “Guts” criticised the singer-actor for remaining silent during recent geopolitical conflicts. “Never spoke a word during the war…now we know why…I liked him, but the opinion is now changing highly,” a user wrote.

“Honestly, I don't think Diljit holds any affinity and love towards India, so I really don't expect him to be pro-India, but I hope now at least the border makers will remove him from a film based on the life of our army,” read another comment.

Other harsh remarks included: “You can’t expect anything better from Diljit. He has always been very clear about his ideologies,” and “Never liked him, never will. Disgusted by him.” One person added, “So all the allegations against him being a separatist are kind of true, I feel. What a shameless person he is.”

Some attempted to contextualise the situation. “Not a Bollywood film so likely won’t face much scrutiny,” a user noted. Another remarked, “Well they weren't gonna cut someone out who had clearly such a big part.” One comment read, “War or not I don’t understand the obsession of taking Pakistani singers and actors in Indian movies.”

Industry reaction and FWICE warning

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), issued a warning to Diljit that he could face sanctions within the industry for collaborating with Pakistani talents, last week. As of now, the actor has not issued a public statement on the matter.

The backlash comes amid renewed scrutiny of cross-border collaborations, especially in the entertainment industry, where Pakistani artists have been barred from working in India since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. The All Indian Cine Workers Association had earlier demanded a total ban, and during recent tensions, Instagram accounts of Pakistani celebrities were reportedly blocked in India.

India-Pakistan tensions continue

The controversy is taking place against the backdrop of heightened Indo-Pak tensions following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 dead. In retaliation, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Although both countries later agreed to halt military operations, nationalistic sentiments remain high, especially regarding associations with Pakistani talent.

Fans were also quick to recall an earlier interaction between Diljit and Hania Aamir, when she attended his concert at London’s O2 Arena in 2024 and was invited on stage.

About ‘Sardaar Ji 3’

Directed by Amar Hundal, ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ follows the comedic journey of ghost hunters, played by Diljit and Hania, who attempt to rid a haunted mansion in the UK of an evil spirit. The film also stars Manav Vij, Gulshan Grover, Jasmin Bajwa, and Sapna Pabbi in key roles.