The controversy over Pakistani actress Hania Amir’s casting in Sardaar Ji 3 has spiraled into a political and cultural storm, with actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh facing backlash and even calls for the revocation of his Indian citizenship. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come out in support of the popular Punjabi artist, hailing him as a “national asset” and “global ambassador of Indian culture.”
BJP Defends Diljit
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), BJP national spokesperson R P Singh defended Dosanjh, calling the criticism “unfair” and “shockingly disproportionate.” He noted that the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) demanding Diljit’s citizenship be revoked was extreme and unwarranted.
“Attacking his patriotism is simply irrational,” Singh said, emphasizing that the film had been shot before the Pahalgam terror attack. He argued that public dissent, if any, should come in the form of a boycott or protest, not by questioning the artist’s nationality or allegiance.
Singh also highlighted the double standards, pointing out how India-Pakistan cricket matches and TV shows with Pakistani guests are allowed without similar outrage. He appealed to FWICE to “reconsider its stance” and cautioned against the “weaponisation of patriotism”, warning that it weakens India’s moral high ground.
FWICE Demands Action
On the other hand, FWICE has taken a hardline position. Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit criticized Dosanjh for not condemning Hania Amir’s alleged anti-India remarks and accused the film’s team of being “careless about the country’s emotions.” He added:
“Have they forgotten Uri, Pulwama, or the Mumbai terror attack? How can Indian filmmakers so easily work with Pakistani artists after everything?”
FWICE has formally written to the Government of India, demanding action against the film and its makers for casting a Pakistani national.
Diljit Responds
Diljit Dosanjh, for his part, clarified that casting decisions were not under his control and reiterated that the film was made before recent events. Despite the backlash, Sardaar Ji 3 released overseas on June 27, 2025, but will not be released in India in light of the controversy.
With public opinion divided and political leaders weighing in, the Sardaar Ji 3 row has sparked a broader debate on art, nationalism, and cross-border collaboration in Indian cinema.
