Actor Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming film, ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, starring Pakistani actor Hania Aamir, will release only overseas. The film will not be screened in India amid India-Pakistan tensions. On Sunday, Diljit shared the film’s trailer on social media and announced the film’s release date.
Sharing the trailer on his official Instagram page, Diljit wrote, “Sardaar Ji 3 Releasing 27th June OVERSEAS Only.” The film will not release in the country due to the film industry’s ban on Pakistani actors after the Pahalgam attack.
The YouTube link of the ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ trailer has been geo-blocked in India. “The uploader has not made this video available in your contry,” read the message on the platform. However, the teaser and songs are available to watch in India.
The film is a satire on ghostbusting and is expected to be a laughter riot.
The Punjabi comedy film was slated to release in theatres on June 27 across the globe. However, it was embroiled in a controversy over the casting. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has raised objections, requesting the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to deny certification to the film. The objection was over the film’s casting of Pakistani actors, including Hania Aamir, Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar, and Saleem Albela.
In a letter to the CBFC, Prasoon Joshi, FWICE chief, said, “In light of recent directives issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B Ministry), prohibiting Pakistani-origin content and collaboration with Pakistani artistes in Indian productions, and the parallel stance adopted by FWICE, we urge CBFC to align with these directives and national interest considerations before proceeding with certification. We appreciate CBFC’s impartial and rigorous certification process and trust that you will give due consideration to this request (sic).”
After the Pahalgam attack, the film bodies, in accordance with the government’s directive, announced the prohibition of collaboration with Pakistani actors and technicians.