Diljit Dosanjh is once again in the spotlight, not just for his films but for the intense debate around his upcoming horror-comedy sequel, Sardaar Ji 3. Although fans have been eagerly anticipating the third installment of the popular franchise, the film’s release has hit a major roadblock.
Sardaar Ji 3 to Release Overseas Only
To begin with, the controversy stems from the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Her involvement has triggered widespread backlash, especially on social media platforms. Critics argue that casting a Pakistani artist at such a politically sensitive time is inappropriate. Notably, the tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Many social media users have openly criticized Diljit for working with a Pakistani co-star under such circumstances.
Sardaar Ji 3 : Diljit Dosanjh Responds with a Cryptic Story
Amid this uproar, Diljit posted a cryptic story on Instagram. It read, “Censored before release?” The post sparked a fresh wave of speculation. Fans quickly linked the message to the troubles surrounding Sardaar Ji 3. However, it turns out the post was a reference to another of his films—Punjab ’95.
Jaswant Singh Khalra’s Story Faces Censorship
Punjab ’95, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, is facing its own struggle. Reportedly, the censor board demanded over 120 cuts to the film, a move strongly opposed by Khalra’s widow, Paramjit Kaur Khalra. Diljit’s post, therefore, appears to highlight broader concerns over creative freedom in cinema. Nevertheless, because of the timing, it was easily mistaken as a comment on the Sardaar Ji 3 situation.
Meanwhile, the future of Sardaar Ji 3 in India remains uncertain. According to the latest reports, the film will skip Indian cinemas altogether. It is now set to release overseas on June 27, 2025. While fans abroad will get to enjoy the film, the domestic audience might miss out.
Adding fuel to the fire, Hania Aamir allegedly shared anti-India content on social media in the past. This has only intensified public outrage. Several users have called for a complete boycott of the film in India.
Pakistani Celebrities Face Digital Blackout
Moreover, the impact extends beyond this one film. Other Pakistani celebrities, including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Mawra Hocane, have reportedly had their social media accounts banned in India. The fallout has also affected Abir Gulaal, a film starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, whose release has now been postponed indefinitely.
Sardaar Ji 3 finds itself entangled in a complex mix of politics, public sentiment, and freedom of expression. While the creative team fights for the film’s vision, real-world conflicts continue to shape what reaches the big screen.
