Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has finally broken his silence on several high-profile topics, including the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, the controversy surrounding his film ‘Sardaarji 3’ which featured Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, and the recent India-Pakistan cricket match. Speaking at a concert in Malaysia, Dosanjh clarified that his film ‘Sardaarji 3’ was filmed before the Pahalgam attack occurred, and the cricket match took place afterwards. He also mentioned that he has much to say but has chosen to remain quiet until now.
Diljit Dosanjh addresses Sardaarji 3 controversy
Recent social media clips show Diljit Dosanjh proudly saluting the Indian flag, stating, “Woh mere desh da jhanda hai (That’s my country’s flag). Always respect.” He sought permission from his audience to address certain matters, speaking in Punjabi. He explained that during the filming of ‘Sardaarji 3’ in February, matches were already being played.
Diljit comments on the Pahalgam attack and India-Pak match
Dosanjh expressed his sorrow over the Pahalgam terror attack, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, primarily tourists, on April 22. He stated, “After that, the tragic Pahalgam terror attack happened. At that time, and even now, we have always prayed that the terrorists should receive strict punishment. The difference is that my film was shot before the attack, and the match was played after the attack.”
India recently defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the Asia Cup, marking their first encounter since the Pahalgam attack. Despite the surrounding pressures and online criticism, the Indian team demonstrated dominance throughout the match.
The singer also criticized the media’s portrayal of him, adding, “The national media tried their best to portray me as anti-national, but Punjabis and the Sikh community could never go against the nation.”
Diljit explains his recent silence
Dosanjh revealed that he has many answers to the accusations made against him but chose to remain silent. He said, “I have many answers, but I kept quiet, kept everything inside me. I didn’t speak. I have many answers. Whoever tells you anything, you shouldn’t take that poison inside you. I have learned that from life. So I didn’t say anything…There are a lot of things more to say, but I don’t want to do that, I don’t want to do that s***.”
Criticism over casting Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3
Earlier this year, Diljit faced backlash for casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, particularly given the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The film, which also features Neeru Bajwa, Gulshan Grover, and Sapna Pabbi, was released overseas on June 27, directed by Amar Hundal.
India-Pakistan tensions
Relations between the two nations worsened following the Pahalgam attack. India responded with ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, conducting airstrikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Consequently, several Pakistani artists, including Hania Aamir, Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Ali Zafar, Atif Aslam, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, had their social media accounts banned in India.
India’s recent match with Pakistan
In a recent Asia Cup match, India secured a seven-wicket victory over Pakistan. This was the first meeting between the two teams since the Pahalgam attack, and despite the heightened circumstances and public scrutiny, India’s performance was dominant.