Singer Mika Singh has strongly condemned fellow artist Diljit Dosanjh calling him a "fake singer" and labeling his latest actions as "irresponsible" regarding the release of Sardaar Ji 3.
The movie, which has Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is to be released internationally on June 27 but will not feature in India.
Despite increased tensions between India and Pakistan due to the Pahalgam terror attack, Diljit has remained busy promoting the film along with his co-star Neeru Bajwa, going so far as to put up a trailer featuring prominently Hania.
In a strongly worded post on his Instagram Stories captioned "Desh Pehle (Nation First)," Mika lashed out at Diljit for going ahead with the promotion of the film. He wrote, "Guys, as we all know, India-Pakistan relations are not good at the moment. But still, some people behave in such an irresponsible way."
Specifically mentioning Diljit sharing the trailer of the film, Mika went on to add, "Before releasing any material that features artists from both sides of the border, they must think twice–particularly when the dignity of our country is involved."
Referring to a recent incident, Mika mentioned the row surrounding the unreleased movie Abir Gulal, featuring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor. "There was a movie with Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor that most of us opposed, and yet, still some people don't appear to understand the message. What's more appalling is that a fake singer, after performing 10 shows in India with thousands of people purchasing tickets, had now vanished — leaving the fans cheated and helpless," he said, referencing Diljit's recent Dil-Luminati tour worldwide.
Diljit Speaks Back at the Backlash
In the midst of the increasing backlash, Diljit Dosanjh spoke about the controversy during an interview with BBC Asian Network. He reiterated that the film was finished prior to the change in the political scenario.
"When the film was made, the situation was fine. This film was filmed in February. Many things happened after that which are not in our control.". When it occurred (Pahalgam attack), the producers realized they can't show this film in India anymore. However, they want to show it abroad because they have spent a lot of money on the film. They will still be at loss because they are taking away an entire territory," Diljit clarified.
He further said, "The fact is when I signed the movie, everything was all right. Now, when the producers are insisting on its overseas release, I will have to be with them and support their call."
Apart from acting in the lead role, Diljit is also one of the producers of Sardaar Ji 3, the other two being Gunbir Singh Sidhu and Manmord Sidhu. The movie is being directed by Amar Hundal.
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