The trailer for “Sardaar Ji 3” has officially dropped, but fans in India will unfortunately not get to see the Diljit Dosanjh starrer on the big screen. The film has faced a complete ban on its release in India, sparking a major controversy due to the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have spearheaded this ban, even calling for a complete boycott of Diljit Dosanjh and the film’s co-producers.
“Sardaar Ji 3” India Release Halted
While the visuals and comedic elements of trailer have garnered attention, the news of its complete ban in India has overshadowed its launch. The film, originally slated for a worldwide release on June 27, 2025, will now skip its Indian theatrical run.
This drastic measure by Indian film bodies stems directly from the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a prominent role. This marks a significant setback for the film’s makers and a disappointment for Diljit Dosanjh’s massive Indian fanbase, who eagerly await his new projects.
FWICE and AICWA Call for Ban
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have unequivocally called for a nationwide ban on “Sardaar Ji 3.” Their decision comes after Hania Aamir’s public condemnation of India’s recent “Operation Sindoor,” a counter-operation addressing cross-border infiltration and terror activities. Her comments reportedly did not sit well with Indian film bodies, leading to the severe backlash.
Both associations have issued strong statements, asserting that any collaboration with Pakistani artists who make anti-India remarks is unacceptable. They have gone a step further, urging a complete boycott of not only “Sardaar Ji 3” but also Diljit Dosanjh and any co-producers associated with the film. This move highlights the escalating tension between political sentiments and artistic collaborations.
Echoes of “Abir Gulaal”: Not the First Film to Face Ban
This is not the first instance where a film featuring Pakistani artists has faced such severe repercussions in India. The situation with “Sardaar Ji 3” draws parallels to the fate of “Abir Gulaal,” a project reportedly starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor. That film was also shelved indefinitely just days before its scheduled release due to intense pressure and public backlash surrounding the casting of a Pakistani actor, particularly after heightened cross-border tensions.
The repeated occurrence of such incidents underscores the stringent stance of Indian film associations against collaborations with artists from across the border, especially when political sensitivities run high. These bans effectively restrict such films from accessing the lucrative Indian market, significantly impacting their box office potential and reach.
“Sardaar Ji 3” Cast and Production Details
While the controversy rages, “Sardaar Ji 3” still boasts a notable cast and production team. Diljit Dosanjh, a global icon known for his acting and singing prowess, leads the film. His star power in the Punjabi film industry is immense, and he has also garnered significant acclaim in Bollywood. Hania Aamir, a popular Pakistani actress, plays a pivotal role, adding to the film’s cross-border appeal (outside India).
The film’s directors and producers have yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the ban, focusing instead on its international release. The film belongs to a successful franchise, with its previous installments performing well, making this ban a particularly painful blow to its commercial prospects in India.
The ban on “Sardaar Ji 3” serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between geopolitics and entertainment. As the film prepares for its international release, its inability to reach Indian audiences due to the casting controversy and the lead actress’s comments remains a significant point of discussion within the industry and among fans.
