By Kuala Lumpur, September 25, 2025 – Acclaimed Punjabi entertainer Diljit Dosanjh has spoken out strongly against the rising backlash surrounding his film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, which recently came under fire due to its association with a Pakistani actress and the timing of heightened India-Pakistan tensions.
Performing in Malaysia as part of his international Aura Tour, Dosanjh paused during his live show to candidly address the storm around the film — and took a firm stance on his national loyalty.
“This is my country’s flag,” he told the cheering crowd. “We are all Indian. And no Sardar, no Punjabi, will ever stand against our nation.”
Timeline Matters, Says Dosanjh
The controversy ignited after revelations that the film featured Hania Aamir, a popular actress from Pakistan, surfaced shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack, where several Indian soldiers lost their lives. Public sentiment quickly turned hostile, with many accusing the film of poor timing and calling for a ban.
But Diljit clarified that the film’s production was completed before these tragic events, and that any link between the two is being wrongly implied.
“Our film was shot well before the current situation. We can’t predict world events,” he said. “It’s unfair to politicize art after the fact.”
National Media Criticized for Narrative Framing
Dosanjh also took issue with the way certain media outlets have portrayed him in recent days, suggesting that the coverage has twisted facts and ignored the context of the project.
“Some in the media were quick to paint me as anti-national. That’s not just false — it’s dangerous,” he said.
He called on journalists to report responsibly and not stir public sentiment without proper verification, especially when it comes to sensitive national matters.
Match vs. Movie: Selective Outrage?
Highlighting what he saw as an inconsistency, Dosanjh questioned the muted response to the India-Pakistan cricket match, which proceeded as scheduled amid political tensions.
“A cricket match between the two countries didn’t get this kind of anger. So why are artists being targeted now?” he asked. “We all love our country — don’t single out musicians or filmmakers.”
Release Blocked in India, International Screenings Continue
Following mounting protests online, the film’s producers confirmed that ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ will not be released in Indian cinemas, and instead will be limited to global distribution. The move has sparked disappointment among fans but was seen as a precautionary step.
Cultural Icons Under Pressure
Dosanjh, known for promoting Punjabi pride and Indian unity globally, reiterated that no professional opportunity is worth compromising national values.
“India comes before everything — that’s always been my belief,” he said. “But don’t let misinformation drive a wedge between people and artists who stand with you.”
