Indian Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has made headlines once again — this time, not for a performance, but for a resurfaced video where he boldly states he has no desire to work in Bollywood. The timing couldn’t be more interesting, as it comes during the ongoing boycott campaign against his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3.
Sardaar Ji 3 Sparks Political Firestorm
The film Sardaar Ji 3, featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, has drawn intense criticism in India. After the release of its trailer on June 22, a wave of anger swept through Indian social media, accusing Diljit of promoting a Pakistani artist during a period of rising Indo-Pak tensions.
The backlash led to boycott calls not just against the film, but against Diljit Dosanjh himself. Overseas Release Strategy
Due to India’s unofficial ban on Pakistani actors, the filmmakers chose to release the film overseas instead of within India. In a BBC Urdu interview with Haroon Rashid, Diljit and co-star Neeru Bajwa clarified that the film was completed before the Pahalgam incident and that shelving it would have caused major financial losses for the producers.
Diljit remained unfazed by the boycott:
> “The film will release as planned. We’re focused on promoting it — we don’t fear trolls.”
—“I Don’t Need Bollywood”: Diljit’s Old Video Resurfaces
Amid this controversy, a past video of Diljit has gone viral where he shares his clear views on Bollywood:
> “I don’t want to work in Bollywood. I’ve never wanted to become a big Bollywood star.”
He emphasized that his passion lies in music, and he will continue making it with or without Bollywood’s approval.
> “Nobody can stop me from making music. I don’t care if I’m offered a role in Bollywood or not.” Standing by Hania Aamir
Despite criticism, Diljit has stood by Hania Aamir, refusing to re-shoot the film or replace her with AI, as some reports suggested. His firm support has won him praise from Pakistani celebrities who have shown solidarity with both Diljit and Hania.
Talent Over TerritoryDiljit Dosanjh’s message is clear — creative freedom matters more than fame. His love for music, loyalty to his team, and indifference toward Bollywood’s politics have turned him into a symbol of artistic independence.