‘Sardaar Ji 3’ to Skip India Release Amid Controversy Over Hania Aamir's Casting; Internet Reacts with Boycott Calls

Sardaar Ji 3, a highly awaited Punjabi film starring Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actor Hania Aamir, will not be released in India due to escalating tensions and public outrage over Aamir's casting. On June 27, the movie will be released worldwide, excluding India.

Why the Release in India Was Cancelled

The decision comes after the inclusion of a Pakistani actor in an Indian production drew increasing criticism from film organisations and segments of the public. After the preview was made public, the uproar grew more intense, and the producers decided to make an official statement.

The video was shot long before the recent rise of tensions between India and Pakistan, the creators clarified in their statement. "This is to draw everyone's attention to the fact that Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed well before the current state of affairs in our nation, and no Pakistani artists were signed following the Pahalgam terrorist attack," they stated.

"During this delicate time, we stand united with our country and fellow countrymen," they continued. Because of this, we have chosen to wait till the time is right before releasing or promoting the movie in India.

Online Reactions That Are Not All the Same

Responses on the internet were mixed. While some urged a boycott of actor Diljit Dosanjh and denounced the filmmakers, others backed the decision to not distribute the movie in India.

Another person commented, "If you're so worried, why don't you cut the scenes with Hania?" “It’s shameful—profit first, nation second,” said another.

Others, on the other hand, defended the filmmakers, arguing that art should be universal. "Great choice. There are no limits to art," one person wrote.

Dosanjh Diljit Reacts

In response to the criticism, Diljit Dosanjh previously stated on BBC Asian Network that the movie was finished well in advance of the present political situation and that the producers had already made large investments.

On June 27, 2025, Sardaar Ji 3 will be released globally, excluding India, notwithstanding the controversy.