The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has called for a complete boycott of singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh following the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3. The move has sparked a major controversy in the Indian entertainment industry, especially in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
In a strongly worded statement, AICWA accused Dosanjh of “disrespecting national sentiments” and “insulting the sacrifice of Indian soldiers and civilians.” The association emphasized that it had previously banned Pakistani artists from working in India after the 2019 Pulwama attack and warned that any violation of this stance would face strict consequences.
AICWA president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta urged the Indian film industry to sever all professional ties with Dosanjh, including boycotting his songs, concerts, and future projects. “You are taking actors from a terrorist country. We will protest against this,” Gupta said in a video statement.
The film, produced by White Hill Studios and Story Time Productions, features Hania Aamir alongside Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa. Amid the backlash, the makers have decided to release Sardaar Ji 3 overseas only, with no plans for an Indian theatrical release as of now.
Adding to the controversy, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also condemned the casting and is reportedly planning to ban Dosanjh and the film’s producers from future projects in India.
Despite the uproar, Dosanjh has not issued a formal response. He recently shared a promotional photo with Hania Aamir on social media, further fueling criticism.
The film is scheduled for an overseas release on June 27. Whether the controversy will impact its international reception remains to be seen.
