A Release Overshadowed by Conflict – Diljit Dosanjh speaks about ‘Sardar Ji 3’ Controversy

The launch of Sardar Ji 3, which stars Punjabi megastar Diljit Dosanjh, was supposed to be a cinematic extravaganza. Instead, it turned into the focal point of an intense controversy. The movie, which starred Pakistani actress Hania Aamir alongside Dosanjh, generated outrage during tense India-Pakistan relations and was withheld from release in India, although it was launched globally.

Addressing a concert recently in Kuala Lumpur, Diljit Dosanjh finally spoke, taking on the criticism, controversies, and accusations of betrayal which followed the film throughout.

Respect for the Flag, Respect for the Nation

At his concert, when an Indian flag was held up in the audience, Dosanjh stopped to show respect. “This is the flag of my country, and it must always be respected,” he told the crowd, to applause. It was not only a reaction to the fans but also a statement to critics who doubted his patriotism amidst the Sardar Ji 3 backlash.

Cricket Matches Go On, but the Film Was Halted

Dosanjh presented a stark contrast between film and sport. “When my film was released, India and Pakistan were conducting cricket matches—and they are still conducting those matches,” he said. His argument was straightforward but cutting: whereas cricket goes on worldwide irrespective of political conflict, creative ventures like his are subject to disproportionate vilification and bans.

The Shadow of the Pahalgam Tragedy

The April 22 Pahalgam attack added to the controversy. India blamed Pakistan, and Pakistan rejected the charges. Dosanjh mourned the tragedy, saying, “I prayed then and I still pray that whoever is responsible must face severe punishment.”

He went on to clarify, though, that Sardar Ji 3 had already been shot prior to the attack, pointing out the irony that while cricket matches went on after the tragedy, his movie was maligned.

Criticism for Collaborating with Hania Aamir

The most divisive part of the film was perhaps the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Dosanjh disclosed that he was “severely criticised” for the collaboration, especially since it occurred during increased military tensions between India and Pakistan.

“Lots of people called me a traitor,” he recalled, “but people know well that a Punjabi chieftain cannot be a traitor.” Even with appeals from Indian filmmakers for him to be banned and stripped of his citizenship, Dosanjh remained quiet during the peak of the backlash. Now, he speaks up for the first time for many of his loyalists: politics cannot punish art.

Silence, Strength, and the Artist’s Dilemma

For months, Dosanjh kept quiet about his critics. “I had answers, but I decided to say nothing,” he said, a choice based on maturity, not weakness. Silence, for him, became a show of strength—a means to be above noise and hostility and to allow time to bring out the truth.

The Larger Debate: Art vs. Politics

The Sardar Ji 3 furore is not merely about a film or an actor—it is the classic battle between art and politics. As cricket matches endure the geopolitical tempests, cultural transactions tend to suffer. Dosanjh’s experience mirrors the plight of artists who are torn between their art and patriotic narratives.

A Chieftain’s Resolve

Diljit Dosanjh’s words are not only those of an actor’s defense but a reminder of the strength of art to cut across borders. Even in the face of boycotts, bans, and even treason charges, his allegiance to his roots and his regard for his country are unshakeable.

The Sardar Ji 3 controversy might have tainted the release of the film in India, but it has also solidified Dosanjh’s reputation as a brave artist—one who thinks that genuine patriots don’t need to yell, but hold their ground, even in silence.

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