Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has landed in hot water after casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. The film, which will not be released in India, is set to hit screens overseas, including Pakistan. The controversy stems from Aamir’s alleged anti-India social media posts, particularly following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. This has sparked outrage within the Indian film industry, prompting several organizations to call for Diljit’s removal from future Hindi film projects most notably Border 2.
Sources close to the production of Border 2 told TOI that Diljit has shot only a few scenes, and discussions are underway to potentially recast his role. Punjabi singer-actor Ammy Virk is reportedly being considered as his replacement. “Ammy’s name has come up in internal discussions, and replacing Diljit would be relatively easy at this stage,” a source said. However, there has been no official confirmation from producer Nidhi Dutta, nor have representatives for either actor issued statements.
In contrast, Hindustan Times reported that there are currently no plans to remove Diljit from Border 2. A senior insider stated that the actor’s casting was finalized months ago and that nearly half the film is already completed, making any change logistically difficult.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) sent a formal letter to lead actor Sunny Deol, urging him to reconsider working with Diljit in light of national sentiments. They cited Hania Aamir’s alleged views and the sensitive timing following the terror attack as reasons for concern.
Diljit defended himself in an interview with BBC Asian Network, saying, “We shot Sardaar Ji 3 in February when everything was normal. The current situation is beyond our control.” He added that he supports the producers’ decision to release the film overseas.
Border 2 is currently in production in Pune.