Punjabi actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh is facing criticism online after releasing the trailer for his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3, which features popular Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The backlash comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, after which Indian film federations had imposed a strict ban on Pakistani artists working in Indian films.
Although Sardaar Ji 3 was shot before the attack and Diljit announced that the film will not release in India, a section of social media users slammed the actor, calling him 'insensitive' and 'shameless' for promoting a film with a Pakistani actress during such a tense time.
B Praak's post adds fuel to the fire
Amid this controversy, singer B Praak shared a cryptic message on his Instagram story that has now gone viral. He wrote, "Kayin artist apna zameer he bech chuke ne. Fiteh mooh tuhade (Many artists have sold their conscience. Shame on you)."
Netizens react to B Praak's post
Though B Praak did not name anyone, netizens believe the post was a direct dig at Diljit, especially given the timing of the story, shortly after the Sardaar Ji 3 trailer dropped.
A section of Reddit users also praised B Praak for speaking against Diljit.
"Finally someone said the truth...nhi too so called celebrities ko to apne desh se zyada pak fans ki zyada chinta hai," a user commented.
"Finally!! Someone got spine," wrote another user in the comments section of a now-virat Reddit post.
Netizens react to Diljit's decision
The release of Sardaar Ji 3's trailer sparked debate online, with users questioning Diljit's decision to work with a Pakistani actress at a time when national sentiments are running high.
Several users called for boycotting the film altogether, while others urged Indian celebrities to respect the ban imposed by film bodies.
Industry stance remains firm on artist ban
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian film federations had jointly decided to ban all Pakistani artists from working in Indian projects. They had also issued warnings to Indian artists, stating that any collaboration with Pakistani talent could result in a boycott.
Despite this, Diljit went ahead with the overseas release of Sardaar Ji 3, drawing both criticism and support from fans. As of now, Diljit has not issued an official clarification regarding the matter.
About Sardaar Ji 3
Besides Diljit and Hania, Sardaar Ji 3 also stars Neeru Bajwa, Jasmin Bajwa, Manav Vij, Gulshan Grover and others in key roles. The film is slated to release overseas on June 27. The film is directed by Amar Hundal and written by Rakesh Dhawan. Diljit has co-produced the film with Gunbir Singh Sidhu and Manmord Sidhu.
Meanwhile, Diljit is all set to star in the Bollywood film, Border 2, alongside Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and others, and the shoot of the film has already begun.
