Sardaar Ji 3, starring popular Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, was released globally—excluding India—on June 27, and has since stirred controversy over its casting and distribution strategy.
Directed by Amar Hundal, the film came under fire after its trailer release, mainly for casting Pakistani actress Hania Amir. The backlash intensified following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting criticism of the film’s timing and casting choices.
Despite the decision to withhold the film’s release in Indian cinemas, Sardaar Ji 3 has been performing exceptionally well in overseas markets. According to a report by entertainment portal KoiMoi, the film has grossed approximately Rs 55 crore at the international box office by the end of its third weekend, with Pakistan and Canada emerging as top markets.
A recent Instagram post from Team Diljit Dosanjh hinted at the film’s “global rush,” highlighting that the horror-comedy had already earned Rs 52 crore within just two weeks of its release.
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Addressing the controversy in an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit Dosanjh clarified that when the film was shot in February 2025, the geopolitical situation was stable.
“After that, many serious developments occurred, beyond our control. So the producers chose not to release it in India and opted for an international release instead,” he said. “They understand the financial loss involved in skipping an entire market, but I support their decision.”
Director Kabir Khan, best known for the 2015 blockbuster Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which marked its 10th anniversary on July 17, also defended Diljit. He said it was “unfair to target” the actor, noting that external circumstances changed after the film’s production was completed.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan itself centered around cross-border themes, telling the story of a mute Pakistani girl who is reunited with her family with the help of an Indian man.
Sardaar Ji 3 is jointly produced by Gunbir Singh Sidhu, Manmord Sidhu, and Diljit Dosanjh. C
#With inputsfrom NDTV