FWICE Issues Notice to Diljit Dosanjh Over ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Featuring Pakistani Actress Hania Aamir

The Indian entertainment industry is no stranger to political controversies, but the recent clash between Diljit Dosanjh and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has taken the spotlight. The popular singer-actor has come under fire for featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. FWICE, one of the most influential film worker unions in India, has taken a firm stance, issuing a formal notice and demanding action.

What Triggered the FWICE Notice?

The controversy stems from Sardaar Ji 3, an eagerly anticipated Punjabi horror-comedy co-produced by Diljit Dosanjh. The film features rising Pakistani star Hania Aamir in a prominent role. While the movie was reportedly shot months before tensions escalated between India and Pakistan, its trailer released on June 22, 2025, reignited strong emotions and nationalist concerns.

FWICE immediately objected to the inclusion of a Pakistani actor, asserting that collaborations with Pakistani artists are against national interest, especially following recent border conflicts and attacks in Kashmir. The union has urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to deny certification to the film, effectively banning its release in India.

FWICE’s Stand: No Tolerance Policy

FWICE President BN Tiwari issued a strong statement calling Sardaar Ji 3 an “anti-national act.” The union has gone a step further by requesting the revocation of Diljit Dosanjh’s passport and Indian citizenship, along with that of other producers involved. According to FWICE, allowing such films to release—even if they were made earlier—sends the wrong message.

FWICE and the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have also warned that Diljit may be banned from working in the Indian entertainment industry, including concerts and live performances, unless the movie is pulled from all platforms.

Diljit’s Response: Calm But Cryptic

Diljit Dosanjh, known for his composed demeanor, hasn’t issued an aggressive rebuttal. Instead, he emphasized that the film was shot well before the current political climate changed. The actor also clarified that the producers have decided not to release the movie in India, respecting the sensitivities involved.

In a subtle Instagram post, Diljit shared the words “Censored before release?” — a cryptic comment that fans and critics interpreted as a sign of his disappointment and confusion over the backlash.

The Film’s Release Strategy: Overseas Only

In light of the controversy, the production team has opted to release Sardaar Ji 3 only in international markets on June 27, 2025. The decision to hold back an Indian release was made as a gesture of respect and to avoid further agitation. This aligns with Diljit’s broader message of not escalating tensions.

The producers released a joint statement:

“We stand with our country and respect its values. The film was completed well before current events unfolded. Given the situation, we won’t be releasing it in India until things are peaceful again.”

Public Reaction: Divided But Vocal

The reaction from the public and entertainment community has been mixed. While many supported FWICE’s tough stance on cross-border collaborations, a significant number of fans and creators defended Diljit, emphasizing the importance of art as a bridge, not a battleground.

Social media saw a wave of hashtags both supporting Diljit (#IStandWithDiljit) and condemning the film (#BoycottSardaarJi3), reflecting the growing polarization in how entertainment and politics intersect in modern India.

What This Means for Indian Cinema

This incident is a stark reminder of how sensitive and politically charged cross-border creative collaborations have become. It could set a precedent that makes producers even more cautious when casting talent, especially in today’s geopolitical climate.

Moreover, FWICE’s increasingly aggressive interventions signal a shift towards stricter regulation of creative freedom, with calls for bans and legal action becoming more frequent.

Conclusion

The FWICE notice to Diljit Dosanjh has stirred a significant debate about nationalism, creative liberty, and responsibility. While Sardaar Ji 3 finds its audience abroad, its absence from Indian screens leaves behind a trail of questions — not just for Diljit, but for the future of cinematic collaboration across borders.

Only time will tell whether this storm settles or turns into a new norm for India's entertainment landscape.