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Sardaar Ji 3 Hits $500K in Pakistan, Diljit Reacts to India Backlash

Sardaar Ji 3 Hits $500K in Pakistan, Diljit Reacts to India Backlash

Despite being denied a release in India, Diljit Dosanjh's 'Sardaar Ji 3' is making waves in Pakistan, with the film achieving a record-breaking $500,000 opening on its first day. Released internationally on June 27, 2025, the film has been received enthusiastically by audiences across Pakistan, with packed theatres shown in videos shared by cinemas like Cinegold Plex. Diljit Dosanjh, in response, posted a reel on Instagram, sharing glimpses of the excited crowd and urging fans to watch the film in theatres.

The horror-comedy's success comes despite significant controversy in India, sparked by Diljit’s decision to co-star with Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. Amid the increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, the casting choice led to the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) requesting that the film be blocked from release in India. The producers, after evaluating the situation, chose to release the film internationally instead. This decision, though leading to the loss of the Indian market, has paid off with the film breaking records in Pakistan.

In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit addressed the backlash, stating that when the film was shot in February, the political climate was different. At that time, everything was fine, but after major events like the Pahalgam terror attack, the situation shifted beyond their control. Diljit expressed his full support for the producers' decision to release the film overseas despite the financial implications of excluding India from the film's territory. With Sardaar Ji 3 performing well internationally, the film’s success in Pakistan marks a significant moment for Diljit Dosanjh’s career, amidst the challenges and controversies surrounding its release.

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