Diljit Dosanjh Faces Backlash Over Collaboration with Pakistani Actress Hania Aamir
Controversy Surrounding 'Sardaar Ji 3'
Sonali Singh, the former manager of Diljit Dosanjh, recently expressed her concerns regarding the backlash the singer-actor is facing for his collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming film 'Sardaar Ji 3'.
Diljit is encountering significant criticism from social media users, the music industry, and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) due to his association with Hania amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
In a detailed note titled 'Always choosing love over hate', Sonali described the criticism directed at 'Sardaar Ji 3' as both 'disheartening' and 'unjust'. She emphasized that the film was completed before the current political situation escalated.
The production team of 'Sardaar Ji 3', White Hill Studios, clarified that the film's shooting and casting were finalized prior to the rise in tensions between the two nations. Sonali further highlighted that the film is financed by the producers' personal savings, which are now at risk due to the backlash.
She stated, 'This project involves innocent families who have invested their life savings to support the regional film industry. Attempting to halt its release undermines not just one actor but the entire creative community. This is not a corporate-backed film that can absorb losses; it represents someone's hard-earned money.'
In response to the criticism, the makers of 'Sardaar Ji 3' announced that they would not release the film or any promotional material in India until the situation improves, as stated in an Instagram post from White Hill Studios.
Sonali noted that Diljit made this decision out of respect for public sentiment and authorities, despite the personal and professional sacrifices involved.
She remarked, 'Diljit has chosen to honor the feelings of the Indian public and authorities. He is postponing the film's release in India to align with the nation's current mood, demonstrating his commitment to his country even at a personal cost.'
Sonali also pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of netizens who celebrate Diljit's international achievements while questioning his patriotism in India.
She wrote, 'On one hand, global media celebrates him as the first Indian to perform at Coachella and to represent India at prestigious events. Yet, in his own country, we quickly forget and criticize him when the narrative shifts.'
Sonali shared her thoughts on her Instagram account on Wednesday.
In the midst of this controversy, Diljit also shared a cryptic message on social media, questioning if his film 'Punjab 95' would be censored before its release. This film, directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, focuses on the human rights violations during Punjab's militancy period.
On Monday, Diljit released the trailer for 'Sardaar Ji 3' on his Instagram, announcing that the film would premiere exclusively overseas on June 27. He captioned the trailer, 'Sardaar Ji 3 releasing 27th June OVERSEAS only. FADH LAO BHOOND DIAN LATTAN.' The trailer is currently unavailable on YouTube India but can be found on Diljit's Instagram.