Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir's Sardaar Ji 3 skips India release. Indian netizens feel 'betrayed' amid Indo-Pak tensions

In an unexpected turn for one of Punjabi cinema’s most beloved franchises, Sardaar Ji 3 is steering clear of Indian theatres altogether. The trailer, launched by Diljit Dosanjh on Sunday evening, made waves not just for its content, but for who could (and couldn’t) watch it. With the video geo-blocked in India and the release confirmed as "Overseas Only," social media was quick to connect the dots, and emotions ran high.

The controversy stems from the prominent appearance of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir along with Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar and Saleem Albela, despite rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. While Diljit promoted the film with his signature flair, Indian fans felt betrayed, flooding social media with criticism.

On X, Diljit wrote, “Sardaar Ji 3 releasing 27th June OVERSEAS Only.” But Indian fans were met with disappointment when the trailer refused to load on YouTube in the country, triggering the message: “The uploader has not made this video available in your country.” Curiously, the teaser and songs remain accessible in India, making the trailer blackout feel like a deliberate move linked to its casting.

Indian netizens react

Online backlash followed swiftly. While some users expressed their heartbreak and anger—“Nation is always first,” one wrote—others said that he did not do the “right thing”. One shared a GIF which read “Ultimate betrayal,” reflecting the deep emotional disconnect fans now feel toward a franchise they once celebrated. On X, a user called his decision shameful and accused him of ignoring national sentiment. A user expressed frustration over what they see as a growing trend among celebrities who, after achieving stardom, adopt an indifferent attitude. They accused Diljit Dosanjh of abandoning the very country that gave him name and fame, questioning whether stars like him feel any moral responsibility toward their nation.

FWICE on Sardaar Ji 3

Fueling the outrage further, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) had, on June 11, urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to withhold clearance for the film, citing the inclusion of Pakistani actors such as Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar, and Saleem Albela in addition to Hania Aamir.

Sardaar Ji 3 is the latest chapter in Diljit Dosanjh’s hit comedy-fantasy series known for its quirky charm and massive fanbase.