ISLAMABAD: The much-anticipated Punjabi comedy Sardaar Ji 3, starring Indian singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is set to premiere in cinemas across Pakistan on its international release date, June 27 (today).
Despite its scheduled debut, the film faces a possible ban in India due to backlash over the cross-border casting of Hania Aamir.
Indian film industry bodies have expressed opposition to including a Pakistani actress in the project, sparking controversy ahead of the release.
In Pakistan, however, excitement is building. Leading cinema chain Cinegold Plex confirmed the film’s release through a social media post on Friday:
“The wait is over… Sardaar Ji is back! Sardaar Ji 3 hits the big screen on June 27 with double the comedy, drama, and desi madness! Ready for a full-on Punjabi entertainer? Catch it first at Cinegold Plex. Book your tickets now!”
The post was accompanied by a film poster prominently featuring Hania Aamir, and the cinema chain also shared a trailer reel focused on her scenes. Cinegold Plex operates theatres in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
Cue Cinemas, another major Pakistani cinema chain based in Lahore, also announced the film’s release via Instagram:
“Get ready for the laughter riot! Sardaar Ji 3 is now playing at Cue Cinemas — don’t miss out! 🎟️ Book your seats now and join the madness!”
Earlier this week, Cue Cinemas had teased fans with a clip of the movie’s song “Sohni Lagdi,” writing:
“The brand new track ‘Sohni Lagdi’ from Sardaar Ji 3 is out now! 🎶🔥 Feel the vibe while you wait — the movie is coming to cinemas! 🎬💥”
Social media reactions have been swift, with many users expressing surprise at the film’s Pakistan release amid the India-Pakistan casting controversy. One Instagram user asked, “Is it releasing in Pakistan too??” — another responded simply, “Yes.” On X (formerly Twitter), a fan wrote:
“Hania Aamir and Diljit’s movie Sardaar Ji 3 is being released in Pakistan, no one criticises. Move forward.”
Hania Aamir also confirmed the release on her Instagram, sharing a poster of the film with the caption revealing that it would hit screens nationwide. The movie has been officially cleared by Pakistan’s censor board for screening across the country.
