Diljit Dosanjh’s latest horror-comedy, 'Sardaar Ji 3', co-starring Hania Aamir, has rewritten Punjabi cinema history — without ever screening in India. The third instalment of the popular Sardaar Ji franchise premiered internationally on June 27, grossing approximately USD5 million in just 10 days from overseas markets, making it the top-grossing Punjabi film of the year.
Despite being blocked in India, Sardaar Ji 3 posted strong numbers across North America, the UK, the Gulf, and Pakistan. According to Hindustan Times, the film registered the third-highest global opening for a Punjabi-language title, trailing only behind Jatt & Juliet 3. If momentum continues, Sardaar Ji 3 may become the highest-grossing Punjabi film in international markets.
The film also released in Pakistan, where sold-out screenings were reported. However, box office numbers were not recorded over the opening weekend due to cinema closures during Muharram.
The decision to skip Indian cinemas followed rising political tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. After regulatory film bodies urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to withhold approval, the film’s trailer was geo-blocked in India. Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) were among collectives that slammed collaboration with Pakistani artists. AICWA insisted that the Indian film industry “stand united and not associate with Diljit in any professional capacity,” while some voices accused the singer-actor of “working with a terrorist” — a reference to Hania’s casting.
In the wake of the controversy, speculation was rife that Diljit had been removed from the upcoming film Border 2. However, the Punjabi star was quick to dispel rumours. In a behind-the-scenes video later posted to Instagram, Diljit was also spotted on the set of No Entry 2, seen laughing with co-stars Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Mona Singh.
