Popular singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has once again captured public attention, not only for his artistic endeavors but also due to recent controversies. A cryptic Instagram Story shared by Dosanjh, stating “Censored before release?”, has ignited significant discussion. This post is believed to reference his long-delayed film ‘Punjab 95’, a biopic based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, which details extra-judicial killings of Sikh men in the late 1990s. The film has faced numerous hurdles, including a demand for 120 (or 127, according to some reports) cuts by the Censor Board, a decision strongly opposed by Khalra’s widow, Paramjit Kaur Khalra, who insisted the film be released without alterations as it was made with the family’s consent. The film’s release was initially postponed in February due to “circumstances beyond control.”

Adding to the brewing storm is the impending release of ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, the third installment of Dosanjh’s successful horror-comedy franchise. This film has drawn considerable criticism, primarily concerning the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Due to the backlash and ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ will not be released in Indian theaters but will instead premiere overseas on Friday, June 27. The decision to cast Hania Aamir has been met with heavy online criticism, especially following incidents like the Pahalgam terror attack and allegations of Hania making anti-India remarks after Operation Sindoor. Several Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir, had their Instagram accounts blocked in India following legal requests.

Social media has been rife with angry reactions from users who believe casting a Pakistani artist at such a sensitive time was inappropriate. Film industry bodies, notably the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), have reiterated their stance against Pakistani artists working in Indian productions. Amidst this, a Reddit thread sparked debate, with some users speculating that Diljit’s casting of Hania in ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ could be a deliberate “slam to the Indian government” given the struggles with ‘Punjab 95’s release. However, others argue that while Diljit has fiercely championed ‘Punjab 95’ against censorship, casting Hania might not be a direct protest but rather a strategic decision for the film’s global reach.

In previous interviews, Diljit Dosanjh has often spoken about the unifying power of music and his philosophical views on borders and humanity. He once stated, “Countries are at war, and we don’t have control over these things. But I believe music is something that unites nations. I feel blessed to be part of something that spreads love across nations.” He also shared a profound message, encouraging a focus beyond national borders to Mother Earth, emphasizing that humans are transient and should not waste time fighting, quoting, “'Hum aadmi hain ek daami’, meaning ‘We humans are here only for a brief moment.’”