On Sunday evening, Diljit Dosanjh launched the much-awaited trailer of his upcoming Punjabi comedy Sardaar Ji 3, putting to rest rumours that Pakistani actress Hania Aamir had been dropped from the film. Her prominent presence in the trailer confirmed her continued role as the female lead, despite growing speculation following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.However, in a surprising move, the film will not be released in India and will instead premiere only in overseas markets. Sharing the trailer on social media, Diljit Dosanjh wrote, “Sardaar Ji 3 releasing 27th June OVERSEAS Only. FADH LAO BHOOND DIAN LATTAN.”Trailer inaccessible in IndiaIndian viewers were quick to notice that the trailer has been geo-blocked in the country. Attempting to play the video on YouTube triggers the message: “The uploader has not made this video available in your country.” In contrast, the film’s teaser and songs remain accessible to Indian users, suggesting that the trailer’s restriction is likely due to Hania Aamir’s visible role in the film.Hania Aamir’s Instagram account has also reportedly been blocked in India following India’s Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory military strike conducted on May 7 targeting terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Industry backlash and release strategyOn June 11, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a statement urging the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to withhold clearance for Sardaar Ji 3, citing the presence of Pakistani actors. In addition to Hania Aamir, the cast also includes Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar, and Saleem Albela, all Pakistani nationals.To avoid delays, protests, and political backlash, the filmmakers appear to have opted for an overseas-only release strategy.Sardaar Ji 3 marks the third instalment of Diljit Dosanjh’s successful Sardaar Ji franchise, known for its light-hearted humour and fantasy elements. The decision to cast Pakistani actors, particularly Hania Aamir, has placed the film in the centre of a political and cultural storm, with national sentiments running high in the wake of the recent cross-border violence.
