Javed Akhtar criticizes ban on Diljit Dosanjh's film with Pakistani actor

Lyricist Javed Akhtar shared his views on the controversy surrounding singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh and his new film Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. Diljit faced criticism for releasing the film's trailer amidst the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Speaking to NDTV, Javed referred to Diljit as 'bechara (poor thing)' and suggested that the government should consider the situation with empathy.

Javed expressed sympathy for Diljit Dosanjh, acknowledging that the film was shot before the recent escalation of tensions between the two countries. He highlighted the potential financial impact on Indian stakeholders and emphasized the need for understanding in such circumstances.

Javed also mentioned that if Diljit had known about the brewing tensions, he might have made different casting choices. He proposed that the government and censor board should allow the release of Sardaar Ji 3 with a cautionary message to Diljit, urging him to avoid similar situations in the future.

Regarding the India-Pakistan tensions, the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 was followed by India's Operation Sindoor on May 7, involving airstrikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Subsequently, the social media accounts of several Pakistani artists, including Hania, were banned in India.

Sardaar Ji 3, directed by Amar Hundal and featuring Diljit Dosanjh and Hania Aamir, faced backlash upon its trailer release. The film, which also stars Neeru Bajwa, Gulshan Grover, and Sapna Pabbi, premiered overseas on June 27.