Sardaar Ji 3 has surpassed the Rs300million mark at the Pakistani box office, overtaking Carry On Jatta 3 to become the highest-grossing Indian Punjabi film in the country, according to an entertainment portal.
The film, starring Hania Aamir and Diljit Dosanjh, has raked in more than Rs310 crore locally, while grossed $6 million overseas.
Despite its commercial success, the movie hasn’t had a smooth ride internationally.
The film stirred controversy in India shortly after its trailer dropped, primarily due to the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a lead role opposite Indian superstar Diljit Dosanjh.
Amid the political tension between India and Pakistan, a vocal section of Indian social media users criticised the filmmakers for casting a Pakistani artist.
The backlash led to calls for a boycott in some Indian states. Some extremist political groups even staged protests outside theatres and demanded that the film be removed from Indian streaming platforms and cinema chains.
While the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared the film for release, certain multiplex chains reportedly scaled back showtimes in response to pressure.
In response to the growing criticism, Diljit Dosanjh stand firm on his stance.
During a promotional event in London, he stated, “Art has no borders. We are actors, not politicians. The purpose of this film is entertainment, not division.”
Calling for cultural exchange and unity through cinema, he urged people to view the film for its message and performances rather than political affiliations.
Hania Aamir chose to stay quiet on the matter, though reports cited sources as saying she was disheartened by the criticism but grateful for the love she received from the audience worldwide, especially in Pakistan and the diaspora communities in the UK, UAE, and Canada, where the film has performed exceptionally well.