Reports Suggest Film Certification Bodies Weigh Ban on Diljit Dosanjh
Mumbai, India – Actor and musician Diljit Dosanjh is reportedly facing a potential ban from Indian film certification bodies following the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming horror comedy film, ‘Sardaar Ji 3’. The controversy, which erupted immediately after the film’s official trailer was released, highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding cross-border artistic collaborations in the Indian entertainment industry.
The official trailer for ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, featuring Hania Aamir alongside Diljit Dosanjh, premiered on Sunday, June 22, 2025. While the trailer offered a glimpse into the film’s horror comedy premise, it was the presence of Hania Aamir that quickly became the focal point of public and industry scrutiny. The casting decision rapidly led to significant outrage among netizens across social media platforms, with many criticizing Dosanjh for choosing to work with a Pakistani national amidst prevailing political sensitivities.
Industry Bodies Weigh In on Collaboration
The fallout from the casting has drawn sharp reactions from prominent industry associations. Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), addressed the issue in a recent interview. Pandit stated that the IFTDA had previously lodged a formal complaint by sending a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) specifically concerning this matter. According to Pandit, the CBFC subsequently refused to provide a certification for the film, a development that, if confirmed by the CBFC itself, would significantly impact the film’s domestic release prospects.
Adding to the pressure, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has publicly reaffirmed its stringent stance against any collaboration with Pakistani talent. The AICWA reiterated its strict ban on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers working within India. In a stern statement, the association declared unequivocally that no Indian artist will collaborate with Pakistani talent or share a global platform with them. This reaffirmation by a key industry body underscores the deep-seated opposition to such collaborations within certain segments of the Indian film fraternity.
Potential Ban on the Artist
Reports circulating within the entertainment sector suggest that the controversy surrounding ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ could have direct consequences for Diljit Dosanjh beyond just the film’s certification. These reports indicate that film certification bodies are now considering the unprecedented step of imposing a ban on Diljit Dosanjh himself. While the specifics of such a potential ban – its scope and duration – remain unclear, the mere consideration of such a measure signals the seriousness with which the casting choice is being viewed by regulatory entities. A ban by certification bodies could effectively hinder Dosanjh’s ability to release future films in India, presenting a significant challenge to his career.
The reports of certification bodies contemplating action against an artist for a casting decision rather than solely against the film’s certification represent a potentially escalatory development in the ongoing debate over artistic collaboration across borders. It raises questions about the extent to which regulatory bodies may intervene in casting choices made by filmmakers and actors.
Film’s Release and Future Implications
Amidst the escalating controversy, ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ is currently scheduled for an overseas release on Friday, June 27, 2025. It remains to be seen how the domestic backlash and the reported stance of Indian certification bodies will affect the film’s performance and reception internationally. While the overseas release might proceed as planned, the uncertainty surrounding its status in India is likely to be a major concern for the film’s producers and distributors.
The situation surrounding ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, Diljit Dosanjh, and Hania Aamir is a stark reminder of how geopolitical tensions continue to intersect with the arts. The potential ban on a prominent artist like Diljit Dosanjh over a casting choice would mark a significant turn, impacting not only the individuals involved but also sending a chilling message regarding the limits of creative freedom in the face of political sensitivities. As the situation develops, industry observers will be closely watching for official statements from the CBFC and Diljit Dosanjh himself regarding the reported ban and the film’s future.
