The Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3, starring Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Hania Aamir, has been embroiled in controversy due to the inclusion of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The film's producer, Gunbir Singh Sidhu, has now addressed the situation, admitting that Aamir's condemnation of "Operation Sindoor" was uncalled for and a "hit below the belt." This controversy has led to significant repercussions, including the film not being released in India and Neeru Bajwa distancing herself from the project.
The casting of Hania Aamir became a point of contention following the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Indian cine bodies have since imposed a ban on Pakistani artists working in India and the release of their projects. Despite Sardaar Ji 3 being filmed before the attack, its release, especially with Aamir in a supporting role, has faced backlash from cine organizations and Diljit Dosanjh's Indian fans.
Gunbir Singh Sidhu, in an interview, clarified that the film was shot before the ban was in place, stating, "There was no restriction from the Government of India or any other institution." He further explained the decision not to release the film in India was made to avoid hurting the sentiments of the Indian people. The filmmakers have decided to release the film overseas where they have major investments. They also refrained from releasing the trailer or doing any promotional activities in India.
Sidhu addressed Hania Aamir's criticism of "Operation Sindoor," which India conducted in response to the Pahalgam attack. "They [Hania and Mahira Khan] should not have made such statements. She hit below the belt," he stated. He also declared that the production company would not work with any Pakistani artist moving forward.
The financial implications of not releasing Sardaar Ji 3 in India are substantial. Sidhu acknowledged a 40% revenue loss due to this decision. Despite the controversy, Diljit Dosanjh defended the casting of Hania Aamir, explaining that the film was shot before the current tensions. He told BBC Asian Network that a lot happened after the movie was shot that was out of their control. Dosanjh added that the producers realized that they could not release the film in India anymore but they had already invested a lot and decided to go ahead with overseas distribution. When asked about working with Hania Aamir, Dosanjh said that "She's very professional. I keep to myself mostly.”
Adding to the turmoil, Neeru Bajwa, the film's female lead, has removed all promotional material for Sardaar Ji 3 from her social media accounts and unfollowed Diljit Dosanjh and Hania Aamir on Instagram. This action signifies her distancing from the film amidst the ongoing controversy.
The internet has reacted strongly to the situation, with many criticizing the film team for including a Pakistani actor despite the current climate. Some have called for a boycott of Diljit Dosanjh, while others have welcomed the decision not to release the film in India. One user commented, "U do have the option to cut the scene featuring Hania Aamir and yet u didn't do it and after such backlash u are statement to whitewash your image."
