The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has objected to the casting of actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh in the war drama Border 2. The reason for the controversy is Dosanjh’s association with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his next Sardaar Ji 3.
FWICE Calls Casting a “Blatant Violation”
In a letter to Bhushan Kumar (T-Series), JP Dutta and Nidhi Dutta (JP Films), and director Anurag Singh, FWICE had expressed “deep disappointment” at the casting decision. The letter says Dosanjh’s participation in a patriotic film like Border 2 goes against FWICE’s official boycott order, issued after he collaborated with a Pakistani artist. “Such acts are an insult to the sacrifices of our armed forces and citizens,” the letter read.
FWICE reiterated its long-held position against any cooperation with Pakistani talent, relying on national sentiment and current tensions between the countries. FWICE also expressed that casting Dosanjh in Border 2 gives a “disturbing message” that negates the film’s message of paying tribute to Indian soldiers.
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Diljit Dosanjh Rejoinders to Controversy
As a reaction to the criticism, Diljit Dosanjh made it clear that Sardaar Ji 3 was shot in February, prior to existing political tensions. In an interview with BBC Asian Network, he said, “Jab yeh film bani thi, tab sab theek tha… ab situation haath mein nahi hai.” He said further that the producers opted to release the movie internationally because of the delicate situation and possible backlash in India.
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Starring Harsh Chhaya and Geeta Sikhander, Directed by Amar Hundal, Sardaar Ji 3 will release overseas on June 27 but won’t release in India. Border 2 is also being shot in Pune.
