Diljit Dosanjh film blocked in India after global success

New Delhi, July 23, 2025 — Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh's latest movie Sardaar Ji 3 is smashing box office records around the world. But despite its success abroad, Indian fans can’t watch it. The reason? The film stars Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and that has sparked a political firestorm.

The horror-comedy, which was released globally on June 27, has earned over $7 million, including a record-breaking $1.4 million in Pakistan. But in India, where Dosanjh enjoys massive popularity, the film hasn’t been released.

Government Ban Over Casting Choice

India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused to approve the movie. The government also blocked online access to the trailer inside India, citing national security concerns due to rising tensions with Pakistan.

The controversy began after a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in April, which left 26 people dead. India blamed Pakistan, leading to political tension and a crackdown on Pakistani content. The government later issued an advisory to streaming platforms and media outlets to remove all Pakistani-origin entertainment.

That advisory included bans on celebrities like Hania Aamir, and even on Pakistani news and YouTube channels. As a result, Sardaar Ji 3 never made it to Indian theaters.

Boycotts and Backlash

Film bodies such as the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) called the movie “a betrayal of the nation.” They accused Dosanjh of being “disrespectful” to Indian soldiers. Another group, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), demanded a total industry boycott of the actor.

“Diljit should be fully banned from the Indian music and film industry,” said FWICE President BN Tiwari.

But many critics and film experts disagree. “This is not about patriotism. It’s about growing censorship,” said Rahul Desai, a Mumbai-based film critic. “Artists are being forced to self-censor because of government pressure.”

What Diljit Says

In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Dosanjh explained, “We shot the movie in February when everything was fine. After the attacks happened, it became clear the film would not be shown in India.”

He added, “The producers had invested too much money. They chose to release it overseas.”

What’s Next for Indian Viewers?

For now, Indian audiences will have to wait or find unofficial ways to watch Sardaar Ji 3. Meanwhile, Dosanjh continues to promote the movie globally, sharing sold-out screenings in Canada, the UK, and Pakistan.

His previous movie Sardaar Ji 2 made nearly $3 million in India. But it looks like Sardaar Ji 3 won’t earn a single rupee from its home country.


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