As the film gears up for its overseas release on June 27, Neeru Bajwa has removed all related promotional content from her Instagram, a move that has only added fuel to the speculation surrounding the film’s reception and internal dynamics.
Neeru Bajwa’s Instagram Clean-Up Sparks Rumors
Just a day before the film’s scheduled international release, fans noticed that Neeru Bajwa deleted all her Instagram posts related to Sardaar Ji 3—including posters and teasers she had previously shared. Her Instagram feed now features only her upcoming project, Son of Sardaar 2, with no mention of Sardaar Ji 3 at all.
The move has triggered discussions across social media platforms, especially Reddit, where users alleged that Neeru may have also unfollowed co-star Hania Aamir. This digital distancing has raised questions about Neeru’s current stance on the film and her co-stars, especially considering the public sentiment surrounding the casting.
'Sardaar Ji 3': What the Film Is About
Directed by Amar Hundal, Sardaar Ji 3 continues the popular franchise in a new horror-comedy format. Set in the United Kingdom, the plot follows a quirky team of ghost hunters—played by Diljit Dosanjh and Hania Aamir—as they confront supernatural forces in a haunted mansion. Neeru Bajwa plays a pivotal role in the storyline, adding to the ensemble of this much-anticipated film.
However, despite its engaging premise and high-profile cast, the movie will not be released in India. Instead, it is seeing an international rollout in markets with large Punjabi-speaking audiences, such as Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Controversy Over Hania Aamir’s Casting
The backlash stems from the inclusion of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, especially in light of the Pahalgam terror attack, which reignited national sensitivities. Critics argue that casting a Pakistani actor at such a time is insensitive and unpatriotic. The situation escalated when the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) addressed the issue in a public letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the letter, FWICE demanded strict action against the film’s producers and Diljit Dosanjh, suggesting that the government revoke their passports and citizenship for collaborating with talent from an "enemy nation." The strong language in the letter has amplified the intensity of the debate within the Indian entertainment industry and among the general public.
Filmmakers Respond: Timing Matters
In response to the controversy, the producers of Sardaar Ji 3 released an official statement clarifying that Hania Aamir was signed on well before the escalation of India-Pakistan tensions and the Pahalgam incident. The statement emphasized that the shooting for the film was completed prior to any of the recent geopolitical developments.
The makers appealed to the public to view the film as a work of fiction and entertainment, devoid of political agendas. They reiterated that the collaboration was a creative decision taken in a different political climate.
Neeru Bajwa’s Silence Adds to Speculation
While Diljit Dosanjh has not publicly commented on the controversy, Neeru Bajwa’s social media silence and the deletion of posts have been interpreted by many as a sign of disassociation from the project. This has further polarized opinions, with some supporting her decision and others questioning the motivation behind the timing.
Many industry insiders believe that the deletion of promotional material is a strategic move to distance herself from the film’s political fallout, especially as she prepares to launch Son of Sardaar 2, which may appeal to a broader, more patriotic audience.
Political Tensions vs. Artistic Freedom
This latest controversy reignites the ongoing debate about artistic freedom versus national sentiment. While creative collaborations between Indian and Pakistani artists have historically faced scrutiny, the current climate has made such partnerships even more precarious.
Public reactions continue to be sharply divided. Some fans express disappointment at the politicization of cinema, arguing that art should transcend borders. Others support a hardline stance, insisting that in times of national grief, such casting decisions appear tone-deaf.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for 'Sardaar Ji 3'?
As Sardaar Ji 3 releases internationally, its performance at the box office could reflect whether controversy hurts or helps a film's visibility. While Neeru Bajwa’s deleted posts, FWICE’s strong opposition, and public sentiment have cast a shadow over the release, the film may still find success among diaspora audiences eager for Punjabi cinema.
What remains clear is that the intersection of politics and entertainment continues to be a complex and volatile space. Whether Sardaar Ji 3 is remembered for its performances or its controversy will depend on how audiences choose to engage with it—both online and at the box office.
