Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has found himself at the center of a significant controversy following the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film, 'Sardaar Ji 3'. This decision has sparked widespread backlash, particularly in the wake of escalating political tensions between India and Pakistan, exacerbated by the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and India’s subsequent 'Operation Sindoor' in May.

Amidst this growing criticism, Diljit’s former manager and CEO of Ripple Effect, Sonali Singh, issued a powerful statement defending him. She described the backlash as a “manufactured storm” directed at an artist who has consistently chosen love and unity. Singh highlighted Diljit’s unwavering commitment to his country, noting, “Despite giving everything to his country — his art, pride, voice, and platform — Diljit is still seen as ‘the other’ when it matters most.” She emphasized that Diljit does not retaliate but simply continues to choose love. Sonali recounted instances of Diljit’s past sacrifices, including cancelling a major U.S. concert and absorbing financial losses when the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) raised concerns, and his quiet two-year legal battle abroad. She also noted his support for the producers of 'Sardaar Ji' to protect families who had invested their life savings, and his work on a human rights film about Jaswant Singh Khalra, which has no Pakistani cast member but still struggles to find release. Singh also underscored Diljit’s consistent representation of Indian culture globally, from Coachella to Jimmy Fallon, with dignity and authenticity.

Addressing the controversy directly, Sonali Singh clarified that 'Sardaar Ji 3', which features a Pakistani co-actor, was shot in February 2025, long before the current political tensions escalated. Both Diljit and the film’s makers have echoed this sentiment, stating that the situation was calm during filming. The producers, in solidarity with India, have decided not to release the film in the country and will only distribute it overseas, with a scheduled release on June 27. This decision, Diljit affirmed, is to mitigate potential massive losses for the producers and crew, as 'Sardaar Ji 3' is a passion project funded by personal savings, not backed by a large corporate house that could absorb such financial blows. Diljit expressed his support for the producers’ decision, acknowledging that the current political environment is beyond their control and that he stands by his team.

However, not everyone has been appeased by this explanation. Singer Mika Singh has been a vocal critic, lambasting Diljit as a “fake singer” and “irresponsible” for promoting a film with a Pakistani actress amidst national unrest. Singh, under the banner of 'Desh Pehle' (Nation First), urged artists to think twice before releasing content involving cross-border talent, especially when national dignity is at stake. He also accused Diljit of disappearing after earning significant sums from India tours, leaving fans feeling betrayed. Furthermore, the FWICE reacted strongly, calling for punitive action against Diljit and the film’s production crew, even demanding the revocation of their passports and citizenship for what they labeled an “anti-national” act.

Sonali Singh concluded her statement with a poignant reflection on the irony of Diljit’s public image, celebrated globally but often questioned at home. She questioned how quickly his own country forgets his contributions, pointing out how easily national pride turns into suspicion for artists from minority communities. Singh emphasized that Diljit proudly carries India with him everywhere and is an ambassador of India through his spirit and art, not propaganda. She concluded with a powerful plea: “This cycle must end. Let us stop punishing our artists for being human first. All he has ever spoken is love.”