Anupam Kher on Diljit Dosanjh–Hania Aamir 'Sardaar Ji 3' controversy: 'I wouldn’t do what he did'

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has spoken out about the controversy surrounding the casting of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, co-produced and headlined by Diljit Dosanjh. Amid debates around the film’s release and the inclusion of a Pakistani artiste, Kher took a position that balanced respect for constitutional freedom with a firm personal boundary.

Speaking to NDTV, Kher said, “It’s his fundamental right. He has full freedom to exercise it, and he should be given that. But I can say from my point of view that maybe I wouldn’t do what he did.” He further elaborated by using a powerful metaphor about family and national sentiment. “Let’s say someone slapped my father but plays the tabla beautifully—would I call him home to perform? I wouldn’t. I’m not that great,” he said. “I won’t retaliate, but I also won’t give that person the space. The rules I follow at home, I apply to my country too. I’m not large-hearted enough to see my sister’s sindoor being erased in the name of art.”

The backlash began soon after it was revealed that Hania Aamir, a Pakistani national, had been cast in the lead opposite Diljit. The issue struck a nerve due to the informal ban on Pakistani artistes in Indian cinema following the 2016 Uri terror attack. The release of the film just months after the Pahalgam terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir only added fuel to the fire.

Due to mounting pressure and public criticism, the makers decided against releasing Sardaar Ji 3 in India. The film premiered in international markets, including Pakistan, on June 27.

Earlier, Ajay Devgn was also asked about the controversy during a press event for Son of Sardaar 2. Without taking sides, he said, “There are always two sides. If people have different views, they need to sit and talk. I'm no one to judge."

In the end, Kher’s comments reflect a broader dilemma—where does one draw the line between art and accountability?