The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh's upcoming film "Sardaar Ji 3," featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, has escalated, with Ashoke Pandit, a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, calling for a ban on Pakistani artists and demanding a boycott of Dosanjh. Pandit, who serves as the Chief Advisor of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and President of the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA), has voiced strong objections to Dosanjh's continued collaboration with Pakistani talent.
FWICE, the mother body of 36 crafts in the Indian film industry, has been actively advocating for a ban on Pakistani artists since the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 CRPF personnel. The organization issued a notice of non-cooperation, urging all members of the film fraternity to refrain from working with Pakistani performers, including actors, singers, music directors, and technicians. According to Pandit, this notice remains valid and has not been withdrawn.
In light of the "Sardaar Ji 3" trailer release, which revealed Hania Aamir as part of the cast, FWICE promptly sent a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry, requesting that the film be denied a censor certificate and its release in India be prohibited. Pandit expressed hope that the CBFC would heed their request, citing a previous I&B Ministry notice stating that any individual participating with Pakistani performers would not be permitted to release their work in India.
Pandit has labeled Diljit Dosanjh a "compulsive, regular lawbreaker" for repeatedly promoting Pakistani artists, singers, and actors despite the industry's appeals and the prevailing tensions between the two nations. He argues that Dosanjh's actions disregard the integrity and internal security of the nation.
FWICE plans to issue another notice appealing to producer bodies and event companies to refrain from casting Dosanjh or hiring his services. Pandit emphasized the importance of boycotting Dosanjh to send a strong message and prevent him from benefiting from his popularity and earnings in India while allegedly collaborating with individuals who have expressed anti-India sentiments.
BN Tiwari, president of FWICE, has also criticized Dosanjh for working with Aamir, stating that it hurts Indian sentiments, disrespects the nation, and insults the sacrifices of brave soldiers. Tiwari questioned Dosanjh's loyalty and priorities, demanding a complete ban on all his future projects.
The controversy has sparked widespread debate within the Indian film industry and among the public, raising questions about artistic freedom, cultural exchange, and national sentiments. While some defend Dosanjh's right to collaborate with artists from any country, others argue that it is insensitive and disrespectful to work with Pakistani talent given the existing political climate and historical tensions. The film is slated to release worldwide on June 27.
