However, in the face of intense online criticism, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come forward in support of the artist, recognizing him as a “national asset” and a “global ambassador of Indian culture.”
BJP Spokesperson Defends Dosanjh, Labels Criticism Disproportionate
>In a post shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), R.P. Singh, BJP’s national spokesperson, stood firmly behind Dosanjh. He dismissed the demands by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) as “unfair” and “shockingly disproportionate,” stating that Dosanjh is a “celebrated artist who has carried Indian culture across global stages.”
.@diljitdosanjh is not just a celebrated artist—he's a national asset and a global ambassador of Indian culture. FWICE’s call to revoke his Indian citizenship over an inadvertent and pre-incident film shoot is not only unfair but shockingly disproportionate.
— RP Singh National Spokesperson BJP (@rpsinghkhalsa) June 27, 2025
The film featuring a…
Singh clarified that the film was shot prior to the Pahalgam terror attack and therefore should not be judged in the context of current geopolitical tensions. “If people are upset, they can choose to boycott or not watch the film — but questioning his patriotism is irrational,” he added.
A Question of Consistency: BJP Spokesperson Highlights Double Standards
>R.P. Singh also raised critical questions about selective outrage, pointing out that the Indian cricket team recently played Pakistan without triggering such backlash. “Did anyone demand revocation of the players’ citizenship?” he asked. He further questioned Indian TV news channels that frequently invite Pakistani panelists to boost TRPs, wondering why similar standards are not applied across the board.
Singh called on the FWICE to “reconsider its stand”, warning that weaponizing patriotism only weakens the credibility of genuine national sentiment.
FWICE Demands Strong Action, Cites National Sentiment
>Meanwhile, the FWICE remains firm in its demand for government intervention. In a formal letter to the Government of India, the organization requested strong action against the film’s makers. Ashoke Pandit, Chief Advisor of FWICE and President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), expressed outrage, saying, “How can we forget Uri, Pulwama, or Mumbai? How can we tolerate Pakistani artists in our industry?”
Pandit also accused Dosanjh of being “careless about the emotions of this country”, further alleging that he did not publicly condemn Hania Amir's controversial remarks regarding Operation Sindoor and India.
Diljit Dosanjh Responds: ‘Casting Decisions Aren’t in My Hands’
>Addressing the issue, Diljit Dosanjh clarified that casting decisions are not made by actors, and that he had no role in the selection of the film’s co-stars. His statement aimed to distance himself from the controversy, though critics argue that he should have spoken out more strongly against the inclusion of a Pakistani actress.
The singer-actor, who has consistently enjoyed a massive fanbase both in India and abroad, has chosen to stay largely silent on the deeper political aspects of the situation.
‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Released Overseas, But Not in India
>Despite the uproar, Sardaar Ji 3 saw its overseas release on June 27, but it has been withheld from Indian theatres, likely in response to the growing pressure and boycott demands. The move comes as a blow to fans in India who were awaiting the latest installment of the popular franchise.
This decision could impact the film’s box office performance and potentially set a precedent for similar controversies in the future.
A Global Star Under Scrutiny
>Diljit Dosanjh has been widely recognized for his cultural diplomacy, having performed on international stages, collaborated with global artists, and brought Punjabi music and cinema to a wider audience. His supporters argue that instead of condemnation, he deserves acknowledgment for representing India’s soft power and cultural richness on the world stage.
BJP’s endorsement of Dosanjh not only provides political backing but also reflects a broader recognition of the value that artists bring to national identity, even amid geopolitical tension.
Conclusion: Art, Patriotism, and the Price of Collaboration
>The Sardaar Ji 3 controversy highlights the delicate balance between artistic freedom and national sentiment. While the backlash reflects genuine pain over past conflicts, the backlash against an individual artist like Diljit Dosanjh may be misplaced and excessive.
As political figures and film bodies continue to spar over the issue, the broader conversation must focus on nuance, fairness, and consistency. Diljit’s supporters hope that this moment will serve as a reminder not to let creative expression become collateral damage in geopolitical disputes.
For now, the industry watches closely as the debate over nationalism and cinema continues to evolve — and one of its biggest stars faces the challenge of defending both his art and his allegiance.
