FWICE Threatens to Oust Punjabi Superstar from Bollywood After Pakistani Actress Controversy Post-Pahalgam Attack
Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh finds himself at the center of a massive controversy as internet users and industry bodies express outrage over his decision to cast Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. The backlash has intensified following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives and severely strained India-Pakistan relations, leading to renewed calls for boycotting Pakistani artists in Indian cinema.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has taken an unprecedented step by threatening to ban Diljit Dosanjh from working in Bollywood entirely due to his collaboration with Pakistani actors. FWICE president BN Tiwari publicly declared the organization’s intention to oust the popular singer-actor from the Hindi film industry, marking one of the most severe industry sanctions imposed on a major star in recent years.
The controversy deepened when Hania Aamir appeared prominently in the Sardaar Ji 3 trailer despite widespread rumors suggesting her removal following the Kashmir terror attacks. The film’s makers had initially considered replacing the Pakistani actress after the tragic incident sparked nationwide outrage and calls for severing all cultural ties with Pakistan. However, her continued presence in promotional materials has fueled further anger among nationalist groups and social media users.
FWICE has also urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to withhold certification for Sardaar Ji 3, citing the presence of multiple Pakistani actors in the cast. This move could effectively block the film’s theatrical release in India, dealing a significant financial blow to the production house and distributors who have invested heavily in the project.
The timing of this controversy proves particularly damaging as it coincides with heightened anti-Pakistan sentiment following recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. Social media platforms have been flooded with criticism directed at Diljit Dosanjh, with users calling him a “shameless person” and demanding accountability for his professional choices during such sensitive times.
Hania Aamir, a Pakistani actress, was sharing stories on Instagram referring to Operation Sindoor as Hindutva extremism and calling India a coward.
— Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) June 23, 2025
Today, she is earning from India. She is starring in the film 'Sardaar Ji 3' with Diljit Dosanjh.
Hate India. Make profit. Repeat. pic.twitter.com/uSNsuXC0og
Diljit with Pakistani actress Hania Amir... Hania Amir's account was banned in India during operation Sindoor.
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) June 23, 2025
Not even two months, and they're already working with Pakistanis...
Is it only the responsibility of our soldiers to fight against Pakistan? pic.twitter.com/Ct9BZ3EPMj
Diljit Dosanjh's depravity to release a movie with Pakistani Hania Amir who called Operation Sindoor and India cowardly is purely sinister and sadistic. GOI should investigate this Kh*listani! pic.twitter.com/H5T0tHfHvq
— Alpaca Girl🇮🇳 (@Alpakanya) June 22, 2025
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Security concerns have also emerged as Diljit Dosanjh reportedly received threats due to Hania Aamir’s involvement in the film. The actor’s safety has become a priority for law enforcement agencies, highlighting how entertainment industry decisions can have serious real-world consequences during periods of political tension.
The film’s commercial prospects have suffered significantly, with makers now considering skipping the Indian release entirely and focusing on international markets. This decision would represent a major departure from the typical distribution strategy for Punjabi films, which rely heavily on the Indian box office for profitability.
Industry Divisions Emerge Over Cross-Border Collaborations Amid Rising Nationalism
The Sardaar Ji 3 controversy has exposed deep divisions within the Indian entertainment industry regarding cross-border collaborations, particularly involving Pakistani artists during periods of heightened political tension. While some industry veterans support cultural exchanges as bridges for peace, others argue that such collaborations send wrong messages during times when soldiers are losing lives at the border.
The debate extends beyond individual casting decisions to broader questions about the entertainment industry’s role in national security discourse. Critics argue that employing Pakistani artists provides economic benefits to a country accused of sponsoring terrorism, while supporters maintain that art should transcend political boundaries and that punishing individual artists for government actions is unfair.
Several Bollywood production houses have quietly implemented unofficial policies avoiding Pakistani talent following previous controversies, but Diljit Dosanjh’s case represents the first major test of industry resolve since the recent Kashmir attacks. The outcome of this controversy will likely establish precedents for future cross-border collaborations in Indian cinema.
Reports suggest that filmmakers are considering reshooting Hania Aamir’s portions with another actress, though no official confirmation has been provided. Such a decision would involve significant additional costs and potential delays, demonstrating the financial risks associated with casting decisions during volatile political periods.
The controversy has also raised questions among Diljit Dosanjh’s massive fan base, who were eagerly anticipating the third installment of the popular Sardaar Ji franchise. Many supporters find themselves torn between loyalty to their favorite star and rising nationalist sentiments following recent terror attacks.
Industry analysts predict that this incident will influence future casting decisions across Indian cinema, potentially leading to more conservative approaches regarding Pakistani talent. The long-term implications could reshape the landscape of South Asian entertainment collaborations for years to come.
