Naseeruddin Shah backs Diljit Dosanjh over 'Sardaar Ji 3' row, says 'he wasn’t responsible for film’s casting'
PTC Web Desk: Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has come out in strong support of Punjabi superstar and singer Diljit Dosanjh, who has been caught in a controversy over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his recently released film Sardaar Ji 3.
The backlash erupted after tensions between India and Pakistan flared up in the aftermath of the Pahalgam Terror Attack. Critics targeted Diljit for collaborating with a Pakistani artist during such a sensitive time. However, Shah has taken a firm stand defending the actor.
Taking to Facebook, Naseeruddin Shah wrote a heartfelt message backing Diljit. “I STAND FIRMLY WITH DILJIT,” he stated, adding that Diljit was not involved in the casting decisions. “He wasn’t responsible for the film’s casting — that was the director’s role. But since people don’t know who the director is and Diljit is globally recognised, he’s being unfairly targeted,” Shah said.
Naseeruddin Shah further voiced his personal disapproval of attempts to isolate Indian and Pakistani citizens on a human level. He said, “There are people who want to destroy the bond between Indians and Pakistanis. I have close relatives and dear friends in Pakistan, and no one can stop me from meeting them or sending my love.”
Addressing those who typically retaliate with the ‘Go to Pakistan’ slogan, Shah retorted, “My response to them is — GO TO KAILASA.”
Earlier, filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, who directed Diljit in Amar Singh Chamkila, also spoke out in his support. “I don’t know the entire situation, but an actor doesn’t decide the casting. What I do know is that Diljit has deep love for his country. Those who understand his truth will see that,” Imtiaz remarked.
While Sardaar Ji 3 continues to draw criticism due to its cross-border casting, prominent voices from the Indian film industry are rallying behind Diljit Dosanjh, underlining that the spirit of art and personal relationships must not be clouded by political tensions.
- With inputs from agencies
