As controversy brews in India over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, the film is receiving unexpected support across the border. Pakistani television host and actress Nadia Khan has praised Diljit Dosanjh and the filmmakers for standing by their project and releasing it internationally despite mounting criticism. With social media divided and industry bodies demanding action, the cross-border collaboration has once again reignited the debate on art versus politics.In a viral video clip from her show, Nadia addresses the Sardaar Ji 3 controversy, applauding the filmmakers for sticking to their release plans despite mounting pressure. She praised Diljit Dosanjh and the all-Sikh team for standing their ground and moving ahead with the film’s June 27 release featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.She also expressed admiration for the strategic silence maintained by the Sardaar Ji 3 team. She noted how the quiet promotion led many to believe that Hania Aamir had been removed from the film. However, with the release of the trailer, it became clear that Hania features prominently, and Diljit Dosanjh, one of India’s biggest stars today, continues to have massive public support.Acknowledging the intense backlash from Indian audiences, Nadia pointed out that Diljit Dosanjh is facing criticism, with some even labelling him a traitor. Despite this, she noted that the actor appears unfazed and determined to go ahead with the release. She also expressed her hope that the film will eventually be screened in Pakistan.However, the decision to proceed with the film’s release has drawn sharp criticism from a section of Indian audiences and industry bodies. After Diljit Dosanjh shared the trailer on Instagram, many social media users slammed him for being “insensitive” and “shameless” for working with a Pakistani actress amid heightened tensions.In response to the controversy, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has called for a complete ban on Diljit Dosanjh’s concerts and demanded the suspension of all his social media accounts in India. The association also urged that no government or private entity collaborate with him and called for a probe into the funding of Sardaar Ji 3.Adding to the backlash, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has urged the government to “blacklist” the makers of Sardaar Ji 3. The organisation also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to revoke their passports and Indian citizenship in light of the film’s collaboration with a Pakistani actress.Responding to the growing criticism, the production team of Sardaar Ji 3 released an official statement on June 24, clarifying that the film was completed well before the recent Pahalgam terror attack. They emphasised that no Pakistani artist was signed or brought on board after the tragic incident, and the collaboration had occurred much earlier.Acknowledging the sensitive timing, the makers further stated that they stand in solidarity with the nation and its people. Given the prevailing sentiment, they had consciously chosen not to release the film or any promotional material in India until the situation becomes more appropriate.As of now, Sardaar Ji 3 will have a theatrical release only in international markets starting June 27.
