June 24 — The release of Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3 has reportedly been cancelled in India due to controversy surrounding the inclusion of Pakistani actors in the cast. The decision follows mounting pressure from nationalist groups and political leaders, amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
Sources close to the production confirmed that two actors from Pakistan were cast in pivotal roles, which sparked widespread backlash online and offline. Several right-wing organisations and political commentators accused the filmmakers of being insensitive to national sentiment and called for a boycott of the film.
Major theatre chains across North India, especially in Punjab and Delhi, have withdrawn the film from their release schedules. Distributors have also expressed concerns about possible protests and disruptions at cinema halls, leading to a voluntary halt of the film’s rollout.
Sardaar Ji 3 was the third installment of the popular Punjabi comedy-fantasy franchise, known for its quirky storytelling and Dosanjh’s charismatic performance. The film was scheduled to release later this summer and had already begun promotional activities.
Political leaders from various parties have weighed in on the matter. A senior BJP leader from Punjab said, “At a time when our soldiers are making sacrifices at the border, releasing a film with Pakistani actors is unacceptable.”
However, several voices from the film industry have expressed disappointment over the decision. “Art and politics should not be mixed. Cancelling a film after it’s completed is not just a financial setback, it stifles creative freedom,” said a Mumbai-based producer.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has not issued any official directive but is reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
With rising nationalism ahead of state elections, experts believe that cultural and entertainment collaborations with Pakistan may face increasing scrutiny. It is still unclear whether Sardaar Ji 3 will pursue a release through international platforms or on OTT.
The incident has reignited debate over whether cinema should act as a medium for unity or remain bound by political boundaries, especially in sensitive geopolitical climates.
