Popular Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has recently found himself in the middle of a growing controversy after news broke that Pakistani actress Hania Aamir has been cast in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. While many fans were excited about the new pairing and the continuation of the hit franchise, not everyone seems happy about this cross-border collaboration. A film industry body has taken a strong stance and is now urging the government to take serious action — including revoking Diljit Dosanjh’s passport.
The issue began when reports emerged that Hania Aamir, a well-known actress in Pakistan, would be seen opposite Diljit in Sardaar Ji 3. For those unfamiliar, Hania is a celebrated name in Pakistani television and cinema. Her charm, acting skills, and popularity among young audiences have made her a rising star. So, naturally, her casting in a major Indian Punjabi film made headlines and created a buzz online.
But not all reactions were positive. A certain section of the film industry, particularly a group representing filmmakers and artists from India, raised concerns about this casting choice. Their main objection is based on the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan. They argue that artists from Pakistan should not be given work in Indian films until relations between the two countries improve. They believe that working with Pakistani actors sends the wrong message, especially at a time when many in the country feel strongly about national pride and security.
Taking this view forward, the film body has now written to the Indian government, asking for action to be taken against Diljit Dosanjh. In a surprising and rather extreme move, they have requested that his passport be revoked. Their letter suggests that by choosing to work with a Pakistani actor, Diljit has not only hurt national sentiment but also gone against unwritten rules followed by many Indian filmmakers in recent years — a silent boycott of Pakistani artists.
This call for action has shocked many people, including fans, fellow artists, and even some political commentators. Diljit, who has always maintained a clean image, is known for his humility, talent, and focus on his work. He has rarely been caught up in controversies and has stayed away from political statements. That is why many are wondering if the reaction to his decision is too harsh.
Supporters of Diljit argue that art and politics should not be mixed. They believe artists are messengers of peace and that working with talent from across the border should be seen as a step towards cultural understanding, not an act of betrayal. They also point out that Sardaar Ji 3 is a work of fiction and entertainment, and casting decisions should be made based on talent and suitability, not political boundaries.
On social media, the debate has picked up pace. Hashtags supporting Diljit and calling for calm are trending, while others are defending the film body’s actions and demanding a stricter stance against cross-border collaborations. It’s clear that this issue has touched a nerve in the public mood.
Interestingly, Hania Aamir has also become a part of this storm. While she hasn’t made any public statement so far, her fans from both sides of the border have come to her defence. Many believe that targeting her or Diljit for simply working together is unfair and goes against the spirit of art and unity. Others, however, insist that it’s not personal, but a matter of national interest.
This isn’t the first time Indian filmmakers have faced backlash for casting Pakistani actors. Over the past decade, several films have sparked debates due to the involvement of Pakistani artists. After the Uri attack in 2016, a large section of the Indian film industry decided to stop working with talent from Pakistan. At the time, some films were pulled from release, and actors were forced to leave projects mid-way. That memory still lingers, and this recent situation has brought it back into the spotlight.
Diljit has not responded to the passport controversy yet. His team has remained silent, possibly waiting for the issue to settle before making an official statement. Some believe he may choose to quietly replace the actress or make changes in the film to avoid further trouble, while others feel he will stand by the casting and fight back.
From a legal point of view, revoking a passport is a serious matter. It usually happens only in extreme cases involving fraud, crime, or threat to national security. Whether a casting decision in a movie qualifies for such an action is something that only the government and legal experts can decide. Still, the request by the film body has sparked a larger conversation — should artists pay the price for political tension?
Many fans and artists have called for peace and understanding. They argue that cinema should be a space free from political restrictions, where stories and talent matter more than national identity. They see Diljit and Hania’s collaboration as an opportunity to send a message of unity and shared culture, not division.
On the other side, those opposing the casting insist that respect for national emotions must come first. They believe that artists, being public figures, have a responsibility to reflect the mood and values of the people. To them, working with someone from a country that shares a tense relationship with India feels like a betrayal.
The entire situation has opened up a complex debate about art, politics, freedom, and responsibility. It also shows how deeply emotional and divided opinions can become when national identity is involved. As of now, the government has not responded to the film body’s letter. It remains to be seen whether any official action will be taken or if the matter will settle on its own.
In the meantime, Sardaar Ji 3 continues with its production, and fans wait to see whether the cast will remain the same. Diljit’s silence is being closely watched, and many believe that whatever he says next could play a key role in shaping how this controversy unfolds.
One thing is certain — this incident has stirred strong feelings and reminded everyone how powerful and sensitive the world of cinema can be when it comes to cross-border relations. Whether it ends with understanding or more conflict, only time will tell.