The Punjabi comedy-drama Sardaar Ji 3, starring Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is set to release in Pakistani cinemas tomorrow (Friday) after being denied a screening in India due to escalating tensions between the two nations. Hania confirmed the news by sharing the film’s poster on Instagram, with the censor board greenlighting its nationwide distribution.
The film faced fierce opposition in India after reports surfaced of Hania’s involvement. Major industry bodies, including the Federation of Western Indian Cine Employees (FWICE) and the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), condemned her casting, leading producers to cancel the Indian release. The decision followed public outrage and threats of boycotts, fueled by recent military clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Diljit, who co-produced the film, told the BBC Asian Network that production had wrapped in February when relations were relatively stable. “When the film was being made, the situation was OK… a lot has happened since then, but those things are beyond our control,” he said. The actor-singer confirmed that the overseas release would proceed as planned, including in Pakistan, where Hania’s involvement has generated significant excitement.
The film’s release highlights the fragile state of India-Pakistan cultural exchanges, which have dwindled amid political hostilities. However, Sardaar Ji 3’s Pakistan debut—and Hania’s prominent role—could test whether audiences prioritize entertainment over geopolitics. With Diljit’s massive fan following and Hania’s rising stardom, the film’s performance may set a precedent for future collaborations—if diplomacy allows.
