Introduction
Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has landed in fresh controversy over his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The inclusion of a Pakistani artist has reignited longstanding tensions between the Indian film industry and Pakistani performers, with filmmaker Ashoke Pandit and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) leading calls for a boycott of Diljit Dosanjh in India.
FWICE Demands Ban on Diljit Dosanjh
Amid the backlash, FWICE—one of Bollywood’s largest workers’ unions—has written to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) urging them to withhold certification for Sardaar Ji 3. The organization cites its existing policy of non-cooperation with Pakistani artists following the 2019 Pulwama attack.
Ashoke Pandit, chief advisor to FWICE, told ANI: “We are appealing to our producer bodies that please don’t cast him (Diljit Dosanjh).” He emphasized that the industry’s longstanding decision prohibits collaboration with any Pakistani actor, musician, or technician. (Source: Hindustan Times)
A Repeat Offense, Says Ashoke Pandit
Taking a strong stance, Pandit accused Diljit Dosanjh of being a “compulsive, regular lawbreaker” who repeatedly defies industry norms by collaborating with Pakistani performers. “Even when it comes to national integrity and security, he makes the same mistake again and again,” he said. He further stated that notices will be sent to producers and event companies, urging them to completely boycott Diljit from the Indian entertainment scene.
Pandit added, “This is not just about actors. Every technician, singer, director, or any form of artistic collaboration with Pakistan remains banned as per our resolution after the Pulwama attack.”
Government Support for Industry Ban
FWICE’s stance finds backing from previous statements by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, which had earlier stated that any collaboration with Pakistani performers would face governmental restrictions on release permissions and certifications.
“We hope CBFC will agree with us and block the certification of Sardaar Ji 3,” said Pandit.
The Pulwama Attack and Bollywood’s Ban on Pakistani Artists
Following the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, where 40 Indian CRPF soldiers were killed, India’s entertainment industry has maintained a self-imposed ban on engaging Pakistani talent. Since then, multiple Bollywood productions have faced scrutiny whenever Pakistani artists were involved.
This renewed controversy surrounding Sardaar Ji 3 underscores how sensitive cross-border artistic collaborations remain in India’s entertainment sector. The political and cultural climate continues to affect the film industry’s decisions years after the Pulwama attack. (Read more: Bollywood Faces New Ban Controversies 2025)
Sardaar Ji 3 Release Still Scheduled
Despite the boycott calls, Sardaar Ji 3 remains scheduled for worldwide release on 27 June 2025. However, its certification status in India remains uncertain amid the mounting pressure from FWICE and various producer associations.
Conclusion
As Sardaar Ji 3 approaches its release date, the controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir raises serious questions about the lasting impact of national security concerns on Bollywood’s creative freedoms. With industry bodies and government agencies involved, the coming days will determine whether the film sees a smooth release or faces major obstacles in India.
Read more about India-Pakistan Film Relations 2025.
