Veteran actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, riding high on the momentum of his recent music and acting projects, now finds himself caught in a heated cultural war. Rumours that Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and other talent might appear in his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 have sparked a wave of backlash, with industry bodies warning of boycotts and certification denials.
FWICE Steps In
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has issued a stern warning. Their president, B.N. Tiwari, told Filmfare that Bollywood would not tolerate any “traitors” and that Dosanjh’s film might face rejection from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) if Pakistani artists were involved. The FWICE has officially urged the CBFC to withhold clearance for the film, citing recent government advisories halting formal collaboration with Pakistani actors.
Origins of the Rumour
The controversy began earlier this year when candid images appeared online of Dosanjh with a female actor on set, leading to speculation that it was Hania Aamir and thus would immediately reiterate conspiracy theories- particularly, with the recent Pahalgam terror attack, Indo-Pak tensions would elevate somewhat.
While Dosanjh later clarified that the clothing featured a look-alike or was just a stylistic prop—and not confirmation of Aamir’s involvement—FWICE was undeterred.
Tensions With Pakistan on Screen
The timing couldn’t be worse. Following the April attack in Pahalgam, cultural unrest triggered “Operation Sindoor”—a campaign stripping Indian platforms of Pakistani music and shows. Pakistani stars like Fawad Khan, Mawra Hocane, and even Hania Aamir have been dropped from Indian projects or blocked from release. As tensions boil, FWICE’s directive reflects growing unease over cross-border collaborations.
Inside Bollywood
India Today reports that aside from Aamir, other Pakistani talents—including Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar, and Saleem Albela—were discussed for minor parts. Dosanjh, however, preemptively moved to clear doubts, revealing the on-set photograph’s purpose and stressing no Pakistani casting had been officially approved yet.
That said, FWICE remains aggressive. Tiwari warned that failure to comply would result not just in certification denial, but broader bans targeting films and artists.
Public Reaction and Boycott Calls
Social media has been abuzz as fans and critics clash over the issue. One Twitter hashtag calling for a boycott of Sardaar Ji 3 began trending soon after the rumours surfaced. Critics argue that including Pakistani actors amid political strife is insensitive to national sentiment. Supporters, meanwhile, argue art transcends politics and highlight that no official cast list has been released .
What’s Next
- CBFC’s decision: Will they deny certification based on FWICE’s demand?
- Do artistic ties matter?: Will Bollywood tone down cross-border projects further?
- Diljit’s next step: Will he push forward with casting as intended, or steer away amid pressure?
