Amid growing backlash over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, actress and reality TV star Rakhi Sawant has come out in her and singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh's support. The film has drawn criticism due to the inclusion of a Pakistani artist at a time when tensions remain high between both the nations and there are calls to boycott collaborations with Pakistani talent.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday (June 26), Rakhi shared a video of the film's song and praised both stars in her caption. She wrote, "Congratulation my sweetheart. Hania AmeeR. I’m so happy. Finally you are in Bollywood films, congratulation Daljit sardaar Ji, 3 (sic)."
Despite the fact that Sardaar Ji 3 was reportedly shot before Pahalgam terror attack, the trailer's release has reignited debate on Hania's presence in the Punjabi film.
Check out Rakhi's post here:
Sharing another glimpse of the film, Rakhi called Hania her 'favourite' actress and urged everyone to watch Sardaar Ji 3.
"Everyone should watch this movie. Sardaar3 Hania AmeeR she’s doing debut. Everyone should appreciate her. She’s my favourite. All the best. Congratulation Haniya Allah bless you (sic)."
Rakhi, known for her unfiltered opinions and viral videos, has often stirred headlines with her statements, and this show of solidarity is no exception. Her statement comes as a rare voice of support, celebrating Hania's Punjabi film debut.
A few months back, Rakhi and Hania's social media exchanged had sparked interest among fans in both India and Pakistan.
What is the controversy?
Soon after Diljit shared the trailer of Sardaar Ji 3 on his official Instagram account, he was slammed by a section of users. Netizens called him 'insensitive' and 'shameless' for working with Hania as Pakistani artists have been banned from collaborating with Indian artists.
Also, social media accounts of Pakistani celebs have been banned in India and this decision was taken after Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 tourists died.
Recently, The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) demanded the immediate suspension of Diljit's social media accounts in India. The film body also called for a nationwide ban on his shows and concerts.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) also asked the Indian government to 'blacklist' Diljit and the makers of Sardaar Ji 3 from film industry. It appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that their passports are 'revoked' and their Indian citizenship is cancelled.
Sardaar Ji 3 producers react amid controversy
In a statement released on June 24, the production team clarified that Sardaar Ji 3 was shot well before the Pahalgam attack and that no Pakistani artist was signed or was engaged after that.
Addressing the growing criticism, the makers said, "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."
Sardaar Ji 3 will only release out of India on June 27, 2025.
