The long-standing public dispute between actor-politician Kangana Ranaut and actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh has reignited, this time over Diljit’s film Sardaar Ji 3 and Kangana’s calls for a “sentiment of nation building,” even as her own party, the BJP, surprisingly backs Diljit.
Kangana’s Demand for Nation Building
Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s film, Sardaar Ji 3. The movie, featuring Pakistani actor Hania Aamir, had its international release, drawing criticism from Indian cine bodies.
In a recent interview, Kangana expressed her belief that everyone, including artists, should embody a “sentiment of nation building.” She questioned why some individuals, like Diljit or even cricketers, seem to follow their “own path” instead of aligning with this national sentiment.
She emphasized that nationalism isn’t solely the job of soldiers or politicians. Kangana believes it’s a collective responsibility and that people need to be encouraged to embrace this idea.
BJP’s Unexpected Support for Diljit
Adding a twist to the narrative, Kangana Ranaut’s own political party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), surprisingly came out in support of Diljit Dosanjh. This move came shortly after the Sardaar Ji 3 controversy began.
BJP national spokesperson R P Singh took to social media to commend Diljit. He referred to the artist as “not just a celebrated artist” but also “a national asset and a global ambassador of Indian culture.”
The Sardaar Ji 3 Controversy and Ban
Diljit Dosanjh is currently facing a ban from the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). This ban reportedly prevents him from working in any Indian films.
The controversy stems from the inclusion of a Pakistani actor in Sardaar Ji 3. Indian cine bodies had previously banned artists from across the border following the Pahalgam attack.
Despite the ban, Diljit appears to be continuing his work. He is currently shooting for his upcoming film Border 2 and is reportedly in talks for other projects.
The makers of Sardaar Ji 3 clarified that their film was shot before the ban on Pakistani artists was fully enforced. They have also assured that they will not collaborate with Pakistani artists in future projects.
- Kangana Ranaut insists that all public figures, including artists like Diljit Dosanjh, should prioritize a “sentiment of nation building.”
- Kangana’s own party, the BJP, surprisingly supported Diljit, calling him a “national asset” amidst the film controversy.
- Diljit’s film Sardaar Ji 3 faced a ban from FWICE due to featuring a Pakistani actor, a decision linked to an earlier prohibition on cross-border collaborations.
- Despite the ban, Diljit Dosanjh remains actively involved in new film projects.
This ongoing public discourse highlights the complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and national sentiment in India.
