Sardaar Ji 3 controversy, Neeru Bajwa Unfollows Hania Aamir: The much-anticipated Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 has unexpectedly become a flashpoint in the ongoing cultural tensions between India and Pakistan. In a surprising move, Canadian-Indian actress Neeru Bajwa has reportedly unfollowed Hania Aamir—her co-star—on Instagram. She has also deleted all promotional posts related to the film from her social media accounts.
This action came just hours before the movie’s international release, triggering speculation and headlines across both nations.
Backlash Over Casting Hania Aamir
Industry insiders say Bajwa’s decision was likely a response to intense online backlash. The controversy stems from the casting of Hania Aamir, a popular Pakistani actress making her Indian Punjabi cinema debut.
Right-wing groups and some social media users criticized Bajwa for “undermining national sentiment.” The criticism was amplified by recent political tension and a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam earlier this year. Many believe this timing contributed to the controversy’s rapid escalation.
Sardaar Ji 3 Promotions Cancelled in India
Despite having wrapped filming before any formal restrictions, the Sardaar Ji 3 team has cancelled all promotional events in India.
Producer Gunbir Singh Sidhu clarified the situation in a statement:
“There was no restriction from the Government of India or any other institution. But given the sensitivity of the situation, we refrained from releasing the trailer in India or organising any promotions.”
This decision highlights the delicate environment surrounding Indo-Pak collaborations in the entertainment space.
FWIC Demands Passport Ban for Diljit Dosanjh
The controversy deepened when the Film Federation of Western Indian Cinema (FWIC) urged the Indian government to revoke Diljit Dosanjh’s passport.
The reason? His continued involvement in Sardaar Ji 3.
This demand has been condemned by civil rights advocates and artists. Many argue that such actions threaten artistic freedom and send a dangerous message to creators involved in cross-border projects.
Film to Release Internationally Despite Drama
Despite the controversy, Sardaar Ji 3 will proceed with its international release. Directed by Amar Hundal, the film stars Diljit Dosanjh and targets Punjabi-speaking audiences in the UK, Canada, and Pakistan.
While Neeru Bajwa has erased all signs of the movie from her social media, Hania Aamir has kept her promotional content visible. She has not issued any public comment as of Friday afternoon.
This contrast in social media activity has only fueled more speculation about their professional relationship.
Cultural Divide Exposes Fragility in Artistic Collaboration
The Sardaar Ji franchise has long been a symbol of cross-border success, blending comedy and supernatural elements to appeal to audiences in both India and Pakistan.
However, the current situation reveals just how fragile these collaborations can be. Political divisions and public sentiment can quickly derail even well-intentioned projects.
A senior film critic in Mumbai, who asked to remain anonymous, summed it up:
“This controversy is a reminder that political tensions can quickly spill over into the creative domain, making artistic partnerships incredibly challenging.”
Final Thoughts: Can Cinema Still Build Bridges?
As Sardaar Ji 3 hits international screens, the spotlight remains on more than just its plot or performances. The film now symbolizes the larger question:
Can art rise above politics, or will creative collaboration always be held hostage by national tensions?
While the answers may not be clear yet, one thing is certain—this controversy has left a lasting impact on how cross-border art is viewed and executed moving forward
