Kuala Lumpur, September 25: Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh addressed the controversy surrounding his film Sardaar Ji 3 during a concert in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, finally breaking his public silence on the issue. The uproar began after the release of the film’s trailer on June 22, which revealed Pakistani actor Hania Aamir’s involvement. The casting sparked criticism following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, with some Indian film bodies and public figures demanding action, leading to a halt of the film’s release in India, although it released internationally on June 27.
Speaking in Punjabi to a packed audience, Diljit clarified the timing of the film’s production. “Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed in February, when the matches were still going on. The tragic Pahalgam attack happened later. At that time, and even now, we have always prayed that the terrorists receive the strictest punishment,” he said.
The singer admitted he had faced immense pressure and criticism but chose to remain silent rather than respond publicly.
“I have many answers, but I kept quiet, kept everything inside me. Whoever tells you anything, you shouldn’t take that poison inside you. I’ve learned that from life. There are a lot more things to say, but I don’t want to say them,” he told the crowd.
Diljit also criticised sections of the national media for branding him anti-national.
“The national media tried their best to label me anti-national. But Punjabis and the Sikh community could never go against the nation,” he said, earning applause from the audience.
The controversy has sparked ongoing debates, with several Indian film associations calling for a permanent ban on Sardaar Ji 3’s release in India. Despite the domestic uproar, the film’s international release proceeded as planned, showing the widening divide between public perception and cinematic collaboration.
