Diljit Dosanjh faces industry pushback as FWICE writes to Imtiaz Ali, Bhushan Kumar, Sunny Deol

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has raised strong objections to actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh’s casting in the upcoming patriotic film Border 2. The film, directed by Anurag Singh and backed by JP Films and T-Series, is currently under fire following Dosanjh’s collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his film Sardaar Ji 3.

FWICE, representing workers across the Indian film and TV industry, issued letters to producer Bhushan Kumar, director Anurag Singh, and actor Sunny Deol, calling Dosanjh’s inclusion in a film celebrating India’s military sacrifice “deeply disappointing”. In its statement, the body called the casting decision a “blatant violation” of its official boycott against Dosanjh, previously announced after his work with Hania Aamir—an actress they accused of sharing anti-India sentiments online.

In its letter to the producers, FWICE warned that associating with an artist who had, in their words, "ignored ongoing tensions and national sentiment" undermines the film’s spirit. The letter stated, “This not only defeats the spirit of the film but also sends a disheartening message to every Indian.”

Addressing Sunny Deol directly, the federation recalled his history of portraying patriotic characters and urged him to reconsider his involvement with Dosanjh. The letter read, “Your decision to disassociate from this collaboration will reaffirm your enduring image as a true patriot.”

FWICE also referenced the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, linking it to the timing of Dosanjh’s collaboration with Hania Aamir. It noted that Aamir had posted anti-India content following the attack and questioned Dosanjh’s decision to work with her, calling it “a shocking disregard for national sentiment.”

Responding earlier to the backlash, Dosanjh stated during a BBC Asian Network interview that Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed before recent geopolitical tensions arose. However, FWICE maintains that its stance stands firm: no collaborations with Pakistani nationals will be tolerated, regardless of the production timeline.

The controversy continues to stir debate across the industry, with the film's fate—and casting—under increased public scrutiny.