Diljit Dosanjh stands firm with producers amidst severe backlash for Sardar Ji 3
Indian Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh has refused to budge on his decision to premiere his upcoming movie Sardaar Ji 3 overseas, despite facing severe backlash in India.
In a recent interview, he defended his choice and expressed his support for the film’s producers, who have opted for a global premiere, excluding India.
“If the producers believe that releasing the movie overseas is the best decision, I will stand by them.”
He stressed that the producers are fully aware of the financial losses from not releasing the film in India.
Acknowledging the commercial implications of bypassing Indian cinemas, Diljit said the team remains committed to the international strategy.
“They know the cost. They are still going ahead with it, and I respect that,” he added.
Sardaar Ji 3, the latest installment in the popular Punjabi film franchise, is set to hit silver screens across the world except in India.
While fans abroad have lauded Diljit’s bold move, the decision drew ire among entertainment and political circles in Indian.
Diljit Dosanjh is more than just an entertainer … he’s a cultural bridge between Punjabi roots and global stages. He rose to global acclaim as a singer, actor, producer, and philanthropist.
He began his musical journey in the early 2000s with Punjabi albums and has since released 13 studio albums and over 40 singles.
He made his debut in Punjabi cinema with Mel Karade Rabba in 2010 and went on to headline blockbuster franchises like Jatt & Juliet, Sardaar Ji, and Honsla Rakh.
His Bollywood debut came with the critically acclaimed Udta Punjab in 2016, earning him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut, along with further nominations for performances in films like Good Newwz and Soorma.
In April 2023, Diljit broke barriers by becoming the first Punjabi artist to perform in Punjabi at Coachella. He later appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and made a stylish impression at the Met Gala in 2025.
His Dil Luminati World Tour spanned North America, Europe, the Middle East, and India, playing over 40 shows for more than 500,000 fans and grossing over $100 million.
Diljit is a passionate community advocate too. He founded the Saanjh Foundation in 2013 to support underprivileged children and senior citizens, focusing on mentorship, empowerment, and anti-bullying initiatives.
He is the first turbaned Sikh to be immortalised at Madame Tussauds London and has been the face of major brands like Coca-Cola and Flipkart.