Javed Akhtar defends Diljit Dosanjh amid Sardaar Ji 3 row

Veteran screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar has spoken out in defence of singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who is currently facing backlash over his Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.

The film released worldwide today, June 27, except in India, amid controversy over its casting and timing.‘He didn’t know this would happen’In a recent conversation with NDTV, Akhtar responded to questions about whether it was fair to criticise Diljit for working with a Pakistani actor. “Ab kya karein bechara. The movie was shot earlier. Usko pata toh nahi tha ki aisa hoga,” he said, referring to the Pahalgam terrorist attack earlier this year, after which the controversy escalated.He added that the production was completed before the unfortunate incident and said, “Iss mein Pakistani aadmi ka paisa toh nahi doobega, Hindustani ka paisa doobega. Toh phir kya faayda?” implying that punishing the film would only harm Indian stakeholders.Javed Akhtar suggests a balanced approachAkhtar suggested that the authorities should take a more empathetic view of the situation. “Usko pehle pata hota yeh hone wala hain, toh woh thodi na leta Pakistani actress,” he said, suggesting that Diljit would have made a different decision had he known what was coming.

He continued, “I think the government and the censor board should look at the situation with a little sympathy. And say that don't do this again, but since you made this film before, then release it.

But it should not happen again.”Backlash grows as FWICE appeals to Imtiaz Ali and PM ModiThe controversy surrounding Sardaar Ji 3 intensified after the trailer dropped on June 22, revealing Hania Aamir’s involvement. Since then, Diljit and his team have faced criticism from various quarters, including the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE).The film body recently sent a strongly-worded letter to filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, urging him to sever ties with Diljit Dosanjh. Imtiaz is currently working on an untitled film with the singer-actor, reportedly scheduled for release in April 2026, featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina, and Sharvari.

FWICE’s letter stated, “Your involvement risks sending a deeply conflicting message, especially given your influence as a director known for socially resonant themes… We strongly appeal to you to reconsider your collaboration with Diljit Dosanjh and withdraw from associating with any artist who has been officially boycotted by FWICE.”Going a step further, FWICE has appealed to the Government of India to take stringent action against Diljit and the film’s makers. Their letter requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to revoke their passports and cancel their Indian citizenship, calling for a complete industry boycott.Despite the uproar, Sardaar Ji 3 has managed to release globally, barring India.