Indian film bodies call Hania a ‘terrorist,’ label Diljit a ‘traitor,’ threaten boycott of film

Indian filmmakers have called for a complete ban on singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh following the release of the trailer for his upcoming film Sardar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a lead role. The inclusion of a Pakistani artist has triggered strong backlash from Indian film industry unions, who have labeled the casting as "anti-national."

The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) have condemned the film and threatened to boycott both Dosanjh and the producers. 

The trailer released on Sunday, features Hania Aamir opposite Diljit Dosanjh. The singer-actor shared the trailer on his social media, drawing criticism from several Indian film bodies.

There is currently no official release schedule for Sardar Ji 3 in India. The film’s producer Gunbir Singh Sidhu clarified that the project was completed long before the recent escalation in Pakistan-Indian tensions in May and is intended for international release only.

“Working with a terrorist:” AICWA

In a video statement, AICWA president and politician Suresh Shyamlal Gupta referred to Hania Aamir as a "terrorist" and accused Diljit Dosanjh of working with a “terrorist country.” A formal statement from AICWA strongly condemned the film and its cast.

“Despite the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which took the lives of 26 innocent Indians at the hands of Pakistani-sponsored terrorists, Diljit Dosanjh has shockingly chosen to cast a Pakistani artist,” the statement read.

“Assigning blame without proof deepens divides:” Hania Aamir on India’s allegations against Pakistan

“This decision comes at a time when the entire nation, 140 crore Indians, the government, the opposition, and citizens across all walks of life, are united against Pakistan and mourning the loss of our brave martyrs.”

AICWA announced a complete industry-wide boycott of Diljit Dosanjh and urged all Indian producers, production houses, music labels, event organisers, and film workers to cut all professional ties with him.

PRESS RELEASE
Date: 23rd June 2025
Issued by: All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA)

AICWA Condemns Inclusion of Pakistani Actress Hania Aamir in Sardar Ji 3

Calls for Boycott of Singer & Producer Diljit Dosanjh

All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) strongly… pic.twitter.com/W2rOhE2jMO

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) June 23, 2025

FWICE president BN Tiwari also slammed Dosanjh for collaborating with Hania Aamir.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, he said, “We have heard that the film is not being released in India. But if there are any plans to release it, we will impose a ban. For now, it's releasing overseas only. Still, Diljit working with a Pakistani actor is something we cannot overlook.”

FWICE further demanded that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi take immediate and strict action against Dosanjh, calling the matter a “shameful betrayal” during a time of national mourning.

Diljit Dosanjh invites Hania Aamir on stage during his London concert

The federation has urged all segments of the Indian entertainment industry, including OTT platforms, exhibitors, and distributors, to sever ties with the Sardar Ji 3 creative team.

Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) president Ashok Pandit also criticised Dosanjh, accusing him of frequently promoting Pakistani talent in India.

“This person keeps breaking the rules. Even when it comes to the integrity and internal security of the nation, he repeats the same mistake again and again,” Pandit told ANI.