‘Punjabi can never go against his country’: Diljit Dosanjh breaks silence on Sardaar Ji 3 row
The singer says he had many answers, but he chose silence, admitting that he had faced immense pressure and criticism, but chose not to respond in public
Unlock Exclusive Insights with The Tribune Premium
Take your experience further with Premium access. Thought-provoking Opinions, Expert Analysis, In-depth Insights and other Member Only Benefits
Advertisement
At his recent concert in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh finally addressed the controversy surrounding his film Sardaar Ji 3 and his collaboration with Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. The film became a subject of national debate following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, after which Diljit was heavily criticised for working with a Pakistani artist.
Advertisement
Speaking in Punjabi to a packed international audience, Diljit clarified the timeline, saying that Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed well before the Pahalgam incident.
“When my film Sardaar Ji 3 was shot in February, the matches were being played. After that, the tragic Pahalgam terror attack happened. At that time, and even now, we have always prayed that the terrorists receive the strictest punishment,” he said.
Related news: BJP backs Diljit Dosanjh against call to revoke citizenship
Advertisement
Diljit also pointed out the timing of the Asia Cup cricket match between India and Pakistan on September 14, their first encounter since the attack, subtly addressing the criticism of his film's overseas release on June 27 .
The singer said he had many answers, but he chose silence, admitting that he had faced immense pressure and criticism, but chose not to respond in public
“I have many answers, but I kept quiet, kept everything inside me. Whoever tells you anything, you shouldn’t take that poison inside you. I’ve learned that from life. There are a lot more things to say, but I don’t want to say them,” he told the crowd.
Diljit also criticided sections of the national media for portraying him as anti-national.
“The national media tried their best to label me anti-national. But Punjabis and the Sikh community could never go against the nation,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.
Also read: ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ sets new box office benchmark in Pakistan
The controversy began after the trailer for Sardaar Ji 3 was released on June 22, revealing Hania Aamir’s involvement. Her appearance in the film, following the April terror attack, sparked outrage from some Indian film bodies and public figures. In response, the film’s release in India was halted, although it proceeded internationally on June 27.
Several Indian film associations have since called for a permanent ban on the movie’s release within the country.
Advertisement
Advertisement