Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has come out in strong support of Diljit Dosanjh, who is currently facing political backlash over the casting of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in the film Sardaar Ji 3. The film, although released overseas and in Pakistan, has not yet hit theatres in India due to rising bilateral tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Shah clarified that Diljit had no role in the casting decisions, stating, “He was not responsible for the casting of the film, the director was.” Shah criticized those attacking Diljit, calling them “goons” attempting to suppress personal ties between Indians and Pakistanis. “Diljit agreed to the cast because his mind is not poisoned,” he wrote.
Shah expressed concern that political rhetoric is increasingly aimed at ending people-to-people interactions across the India-Pakistan border, a bond he personally values. “I have close relatives and dear friends in Pakistan and no one can stop me from sending them love,” Shah added.
He ended his note with a defiant message to trolls: “My response to those who say ‘Go to Pakistan’ is ‘Go to Kailasa.’”
This statement by one of India’s most respected actors adds weight to growing calls for artistic freedom and peace beyond political agendas.