Diljit Dosanjh reacts to the ban on Sardaar Ji 3 in India, pointing out that India-Pakistan cricket matches are still being held post the Pahalgam attack.
Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has spoken out for the first time about his film Sardaar Ji 3 not being released in India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. During a concert in Malaysia, he clarified that the movie was filmed before the incident and noted that the India–Pakistan cricket match was held only after the attack.
The singer-actor speaks out on the film’s ban in India and points to India–Pakistan matches held after the attack.
He added that, despite having a lot to say, he chose to stay silent. The video of his remarks has since gone viral on social media.
What did Diljit Dosanjh say?
Clips of Dosanjh saluting the Indian flag have widely circulated online, where he is heard saying, “That is my country’s flag. Always respect it.” Speaking further in Punjabi, he explained, “When we were shooting Sardaar Ji 3 in February, cricket matches were still happening. The Pahalgam attack happened later.”
“My movie wasn’t released in India, but matches continue to be played. I pray for all the lives lost in the attack — I did then, and I still do. The people behind it must face strict punishment,” he added.
Diljit says he chose silence
The singer also claimed that parts of the national media tried to label him “anti-national,” but stressed that “Punjabis and Sikhs can never go against the nation.”
“I had many responses, but I decided to remain quiet and keep everything within. Life has taught me never to let that poison enter my heart, no matter what is said. Even then — and now — I only pray that the terrorists are brought to justice,” Dosanjh concluded.
Sardaar Ji 3 banned from release in India
The Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed the lives of around 26 Indian tourists and injured many others, sparked major controversy around Sardaar Ji 3. Diljit Dosanjh faced strong criticism for casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the film, leading to its release clearance being denied in India. The movie eventually premiered overseas on June 27, where it went on to become a blockbuster.
India–Pakistan face-off at Asia Cup 2025
On September 14, India and Pakistan met in the Asia Cup — their first clash since the Pahalgam attack. India won the match by seven wickets but declined to participate in the customary post-match greetings with the Pakistani team.
Sanchit Saraswat 
Gaurav Chaudhary