Facing mounting backlash over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, the makers of the film have released an official statement defending their decision and addressing calls to boycott the movie.
The controversy erupted amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, prompting outrage on social media over Hania’s inclusion in the film. Many users called for a ban, while others questioned the decision to work with a Pakistani artist during such a sensitive time.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, the film’s producers clarified that Hania Aamir was signed on well before the current geopolitical developments.
“This is to bring to everyone’s kind notice that the film Sardaar Ji 3 was shot well before the prevailing situation that our country is facing now,” the statement read.
“It was never the case that any Pakistani artist was signed after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.”
The producers further explained their decision to not release the film in India at this time, out of respect for the current national sentiment.
“We stand united with our country and our fellow countrymen during this sensitive time. Considering the same, we have decided not to release the film or any of its promotional content in India until the situation becomes opportune.”
While some netizens appreciated the gesture of withholding the film’s Indian release, others criticized the makers for not removing Hania Aamir’s scenes from the final cut.
Earlier, lead actor Diljit Dosanjh had also addressed the controversy, stating that many aspects of a film’s distribution are beyond the control of actors and that the situation is complex.
