The producers of ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ have issued an official statement following mounting calls for a boycott over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The controversy, which has led to a ban on the film’s release in India, comes amid heightened scrutiny of cross-border collaborations in Indian cinema.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) recently condemned the decision to cast Hania Aamir, describing it as a violation of industry directives and a challenge to national sentiment. In a strongly worded letter to government officials, FWICE called for immediate action against Diljit Dosanjh and the film’s producers, including the cancellation of their passports and a complete industry boycott. The body also urged all film associations, OTT platforms, exhibitors and distributors to sever ties with the team behind ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, labelling the casting as an “unforgivable act” and an “affront to the sovereignty, dignity, and security of India”.
In response, the producers have clarified that the film was shot well before the recent Pahalgam attack and that Hania Aamir’s involvement was finalised prior to the escalation of tensions. The statement emphasised that no Pakistani artist was engaged after the attack, and that the team stands united with India during this sensitive period.
As a mark of respect for prevailing sentiment, the producers confirmed that ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ will not be released or promoted in India at this time. They stated, “We stand united with our country and our fellow countrymen during this sensitive time. Considering the same, we had decided not to release the film or any of its promotional content in India until the situation becomes opportune”.
The controversy around ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ follows another recent international collaboration involving Diljit Dosanjh. In May, he featured on the track ‘Buck’ with Chinese artist Jackson Wang. Despite initial excitement about the cross-cultural partnership, the song failed to make a significant impact in India and received a muted response from the domestic audience. The underwhelming performance of ‘Buck’ has been noted by industry observers as a sign that international tie-ups do not always guarantee local support or commercial success.
With the release of ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ now limited to overseas markets, the producers have reiterated their commitment to respecting national sentiment and industry norms. The situation highlights the complexities faced by Indian filmmakers navigating cross-border collaborations, especially during periods of heightened political sensitivity.
The statement from the ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ team aims to address concerns and clarify the timeline of production decisions, while the broader industry continues to debate the future of such partnerships.