27 June,2025 06:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Javed Akhtar on Diljit Dosanjh
Legendary writer and poet Javed Akhtar is known to be one of the most vocal and unapologetic about his thoughts and opinions. Recently, he opened up about the ongoing infamous Diljit Dosanjh controversy surrounding his film Sardaar Ji 3. Being one of the most acclaimed lyricists in the Indian film industry, Javed Akhtar came out to defend the singer, calling him a dekhbhakt (patriot).
The lyricist commented on Diljit Dosanjh casting Pakistani actress Hania Amir in his upcoming film "Sardaar Ji 3". He noted that the backlash Diljit has been facing has no point since the film had been shot before things got tense between the two countries. He shared, "How was he to know? Pakistan will not lose money (because of this), our countrymen will... Laws can't be applied retrospectively... The Censor Board and the government should look at this sympathetically. They can say it shouldn't happen again."
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, who was also present there, added, "I can't say much on the row, but since I know Diljit, I can say that us mein deshbhakti ka jazbaa poora bhara hua hai (He is a patriot at heart). He is a son of the soil. You can see at all his concerts, he shows up with the Indian flag." He added that Diljit is not someone who fakes things.
Diljit Dosanjh has been receiving flak for his upcoming movie Sardaar Ji 3. The film features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack, many are slamming the singer for casting a Pakistani actress. While the makers have cancelled the release of the film and decided to release it only in other countries, many netizens and film bodies are calling for a ban on Diljit Dosanjh.
Film bodies have written letters to the government stating they want a complete ban on Diljit and all his future projects. The letter read, "Your involvement risks sending a deeply conflicting message, especially given your influence as a director known for socially resonant themes...We, therefore, strongly appeal to you to reconsider your collaboration with Diljit Dosanjh and withdraw from associating with any artist who has been officially boycotted by FWICE. Upholding the dignity of our industry and the nation must remain paramount over professional or commercial interests."
