Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3 is at the centre of controversy due to the casting of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. With calls to boycott the film growing louder, especially on social media, the makers have now issued a statement defending their decision and clarifying the timeline of the project.

Sardaar Ji 3 makers break their silence

In an official statement released on Tuesday, the film’s producers explained that Sardaar Ji 3 was shot well before recent tensions between India and Pakistan began. They stressed that Hania Aamir was signed on for the film long before the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent Indian airstrikes under Operation Sindoor.

“This is to bring to everyone’s kind notice that the film Sardaar Ji 3 was shot well before the prevailing situation that our country is facing now,” the note read. The team also clarified that no Pakistani artists were signed after the attacks.

In a move to show solidarity, the producers added that the film will not be released in India for now. “We stand united with our countrymen during this sensitive time. Considering the same, we have decided not to release the film or any promotional material in India until the situation becomes favourable,” the statement said.

Divided public opinion

The makers’ announcement has sparked mixed reactions. While some praised the decision not to release the film in India, others criticised the team for not removing Hania’s scenes from the final cut.

The film, which also stars Neeru Bajwa, is now scheduled to release overseas on June 27. However, backlash continues to grow on Indian social media platforms, with many netizens demanding a permanent ban on the film.

Reactions from the industry

Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who headlines the film, has largely remained silent about the controversy. However, his former manager, Sonali Singh, came forward in his defence. In a social media post titled “Always Choosing Love Over Hate,” Sonali called the backlash “disheartening and unfair,” adding that the film’s cast and crew had no role in current political events.

The uproar follows similar criticism of Abir Gulaal, a film featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, which was also pulled from release due to rising cross-border tensions. Amid the backlash, several Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir, have had their social media profiles restricted from access in India.