"some still don’t seem to get the message."
Mika Singh has slammed Diljit Dosanjh, labelling him a “fake singer” and calling him “irresponsible” for promoting Sardaar Ji 3, which stars Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The film is set for an overseas release on June 27 but will not be released in India.
Its promotion has sparked backlash, particularly given the current diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Diljit has been promoting the film alongside co-star Neeru Bajwa. The trailer features Hania Aamir in a prominent role.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Mika posted a long statement under the headline “Desh Pehle (Nation first)”, expressing disappointment in the actor-singer.
He wrote: “Guys, as we all know, the relationship between India and Pakistan isn’t going well right now. Yet some people continue to act irresponsibly.”
In reference to the trailer’s release, Mika said: “Before releasing any content that involves artists from across the border, they should think twice, especially when our nation’s dignity is involved.”
He also drew comparisons to Abir Gulaal, which was banned in Pakistan:
“There was a film featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor that many of us opposed, and yet, some still don’t seem to get the message.”
Mika Singh took aim at Diljit’s Dil-Luminati world tour, which drew massive crowds across India, adding:
“What’s more shocking is that a fake singer, after doing 10 shows in India with thousands of fans buying tickets, had now disappeared, leaving fans betrayed and helpless.”
Diljit is facing threats over Hania’s casting and responding to the controversy, Diljit told BBC Asian Network that Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed before political tensions escalated.
He emphasised that the project had already been completed when the Pahalgam attack took place.
Diljit explained: “When the film was made, the situation was fine.
“This film was shot in February. A lot of things happened after that which are not in our control.”
“When it (Pahalgam attack) happened, the producers knew that they can’t release this film in India anymore.
“But, they decided to release it overseas as they have invested a lot of money in the film. They will still incur loss because they are removing an entire territory.
“The truth is when I signed the film, the situation was just fine. Now, when the producers want to release it overseas, I will have to stand with them and support their decision.”
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