As controversy continues to swirl around the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, legendary Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah has come forward to express his support for Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh, who has found himself at the center of a heated debate. The third installment in the popular Sardaar Ji franchise has faced criticism from certain sections of the public and social media for featuring a Pakistani actor in a film meant for Indian audiences — particularly during a time when cross-border relations remain tense.
In the midst of this backlash, Naseeruddin Shah, known for his fearless and unapologetically honest views, has broken his silence. Speaking to the press during a cultural event, the acclaimed actor made it clear that he “stands firmly” with Diljit Dosanjh and the film’s creative choices. According to Shah, art, cinema, and music transcend geopolitical boundaries, and it’s unfair to target individual artists for decisions that are ultimately artistic in nature.
“Diljit is an incredible performer and a responsible artist. The fact that he is being targeted over casting choices is unfortunate,” Shah said. “A film is not a policy statement. It is a work of storytelling. We cannot afford to mix politics with creativity every time an artist tries to tell a story that involves people from different parts of the world.”
*Sardaar Ji 3* recently sparked debate after it was revealed that Hania Aamir, a rising star in Pakistani cinema and television, would be playing the female lead opposite Diljit. While many fans welcomed the cross-border collaboration, others accused the filmmakers of being “insensitive” and “unpatriotic” for casting talent from across the border. Hashtags boycotting the film trended briefly on social media, leading to an atmosphere of digital hostility.
However, Shah urged audiences to rise above knee-jerk nationalism and approach cinema with a broader perspective. “Art should not have borders. If an Indian artist can perform abroad, if our music is loved in other countries, then why should we isolate ourselves when someone from outside comes here to collaborate peacefully?” he asked.
He also highlighted the long-standing tradition of cross-cultural exchange in the subcontinent, recalling instances where Indian and Pakistani artists have worked together to create timeless works. “From Mehdi Hassan to Ghulam Ali, we have admired artists from Pakistan for decades. We did not question their nationality then, so why now? This sudden hypersensitivity is doing more harm than good,” Shah stated firmly.
Naseeruddin Shah, a National Award-winning actor and one of the most respected voices in Indian cinema, stressed the need for nuance and maturity in public discourse. “I understand that emotions run high when it comes to issues between India and Pakistan. But that should not prevent us from appreciating good art or allowing artists to work together in harmony. Blanket boycotts do not solve anything. Dialogue does.”
In defending Diljit Dosanjh, Shah also noted that the actor has never shown disrespect to the country and has always promoted unity through his music and films. “He is someone who has represented India globally, performed at international platforms, and maintained a dignified public image. Attacking someone like him over a casting choice is not only unjust but also deeply unfair.”
The veteran actor’s words have added a new dimension to the debate, with many from the film fraternity echoing similar sentiments. Several filmmakers, musicians, and actors have since voiced support for Diljit, calling the backlash “politically motivated” and “counterproductive to artistic freedom.”
Meanwhile, Diljit himself has remained largely silent on the issue, choosing not to directly engage with the controversy. Insiders suggest he wants the film’s work to speak for itself and hopes audiences will judge Sardaar Ji 3 on the basis of its story and performances rather than the nationality of its cast.
As the release date of Sardaar Ji 3 approaches, the controversy continues to simmer, but voices like Naseeruddin Shah’s remind us of a larger truth — that art, when created with sincerity, should rise above man-made divisions. In a time when polarization is becoming common, Shah’s message is clear: creativity should unite, not divide.
