Indian Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh has won hearts in Pakistan by premiering his upcoming movie Sardaar Ji 3 across the world except India despite stout opposition at home, where extremists are calling for his passport to be revoked and a lifetime ban imposed on him and the film’s producer.
Fans of Diljit across the globe have praised the Punjabi Sikh superstar’s bold move, dubbing it a firm stand against domestic pressure and applauding his decision to make the film accessible internationally, including in neighbouring countries.
The film’s premiere was met with excitement and applause on Pakistani social media platforms, with many lauding Diljit as a true artist above politics.
One netizen wrote, “Diljit, you won hearts!” while another added, “Sardaar Ji rules the hearts!”
However, back home in India, the response has been swift and severe. Nationalist groups and extremist voices have accused Diljit of betraying “national sentiment”, calling for the revocation of his passport and a lifetime ban on both the actor and the film’s producer.
Although the Federation of Western India Cine Employees chief vowed to kick out Diljit, Dosanjh went ahead, revealing that the film would release.
A user tweeted: “I really don’t like how these stars, after reaching a certain kind of stardom, grow this IDGAF attitude. #DiljitDosanjh completely abandoned his country — a country that gave him name, fame, everything. They have literally no moral responsibility towards their nation??”
Another added: “Diljit Dosanj is doing a film with Pakistani actress Haniya Aamir. Hindus, don’t forget After the the bloodshed of Hindus in Pahalgam, this Khalistani still releasing a film with enemy.
Several Pakistani celebs, including Mahira Khan, Iqra Aziz, Zara Noor Abbas, and Yasir Hussain, rallied behind their Indian counterpart, praising his bold message.
Sardaar Ji 3, part of the hit comedy-fantasy franchise, marks Diljit’s return as a ghostbuster.
Diljit also shut down the speculations that the movie release was restricted, Pakistani actress’s name would be removed from the cast of the movie after the war between Pakistan and India.
