Indian singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has spoken out on the controversy surrounding his film Sardaar Ji 3, which was banned in India following the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
Addressing fans during his concert in Malaysia, Dosanjh said he was unfairly labelled “anti-national” despite his clear support for his country.
During the concert, Dosanjh clarified that Sardaar Ji 3 had been filmed before the Pahalgam attack. He pointed out the inconsistency of banning his film while international cricket matches between India and Pakistan continued after the incident.
“The film was shot before the attack, and now the match was played after the attack. Then and now, we have always prayed that terrorists receive severe punishment. We are with our country,” he said.
Responds to ‘anti-national’ allegations
The singer expressed frustration that he was branded “anti-national” after the film’s release. He stressed that the Punjabi and Sikh community has always stood firmly with India and could never go against the country.
Dosanjh said, “Every effort was made to portray me as an anti-national, but this is not the truth. Our community has always been loyal and patriotic.”
Controversy over casting and ban
Sardaar Ji 3, which stars Pakistani actress Hania Aamir alongside Diljit Dosanjh, was released worldwide earlier this year but was withheld from cinemas in India. The casting choice had sparked criticism in India amid heightened political tensions.
Despite the backlash, the film has performed well internationally, gaining attention from the Punjabi diaspora across multiple countries.
