Jasbir Jassi Backs Diljit Dosanjh Amid Sardaar Ji 3 Row, Urges Focus on Talent Over Politics

Punjabi singer and actor Jasbir Jassi has come out in support of Diljit Dosanjh following the backlash over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. The controversy, which has sparked debate across social media, gained further momentum after singer Mika Singh criticised the decision. Now, Jasbir Jassi has urged audiences to focus on art and performance, not nationality.

The Sardaar Ji 3 Casting Controversy

The film, starring Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Hania Aamir, recently faced criticism for featuring a Pakistani actress in a leading role. Several voices online and in the industry questioned the timing of the casting decision, especially in the backdrop of strained cross-border relations.

However, the film’s team clarified that Hania was cast before the recent Pahalgam terror incident, which had heightened sensitivities.

Jasbir Jassi’s Stand

Taking to social media, Jasbir Jassi called the backlash against Diljit “unfair” and stated that art should remain free from political restrictions. He praised Diljit’s contribution to Punjabi cinema and music, calling him a “true representative of global Punjabi culture.”

Jassi also urged audiences to consider the bigger picture—how art, music, and cinema connect people across borders, especially in a world already divided by many issues.

Audience Reactions Split

The response to Jassi’s statement has been mixed. While many fans appreciated his balanced view and support for artistic freedom, others continued to express concern about involving Pakistani talent in Indian projects. Some industry insiders also hinted that such controversies may discourage collaborative efforts between artists from neighbouring nations.

In Tier 2 cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Amritsar—strongholds of Punjabi cinema fandom—the issue has sparked lively discussions, with many young audiences supporting cross-border collaboration in the name of cultural exchange.

A Larger Conversation in Indian Entertainment

This incident is part of a broader debate within Indian entertainment—how to balance national sentiment with creative openness. Several actors and singers have previously voiced similar concerns about the limitations artists face due to political climates.

With the rise of OTT platforms and social media, audiences are increasingly engaging with content from across borders, which brings such conversations into the mainstream.

Conclusion

Jasbir Jassi’s defense of Diljit Dosanjh reflects a growing section within the industry that believes in keeping art above politics. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, the Sardaar Ji 3 debate has opened up important questions around collaboration, identity, and freedom of expression. For fans and creators alike—especially in culturally rich Tier 2 cities—the line between nationalism and artistic unity is becoming increasingly complex to navigate.