Indian actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh made a striking return to India on Monday, marking his first public appearance since facing intense backlash over his controversial film Sardaar Ji 3. The actor was seen at Mumbai Airport, warmly greeted by paparazzi despite the heated controversy surrounding the cross-border project.
In a now-viral video on Instagram, Diljit appeared composed and gracious. Dressed casually in a white T-shirt, blue jeans, and his signature red turban, he smiled and acknowledged media personnel with folded hands and a wave before quickly stepping into his vehicle. Though he declined photo requests, his warm gesture didn’t go unnoticed, signaling a poised return home.
Controversy Over Sardaar Ji 3
The backlash stemmed from Sardaar Ji 3, released overseas on June 27, which did not screen in Indian cinemas due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
Indian film bodies took issue with the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir as the female lead, calling for a boycott of the film and even demanding Diljit’s removal from future Bollywood projects.
Despite the boycott, the film saw a strong global debut, earning over Rs11 crore in two days, with Pakistan emerging as its largest market. Diljit later shared clips of packed theatres in Pakistan celebrating the film’s release—an act that invited even more criticism from hardline voices in India.
Back in India for Border 2 – Striking return
Media reports suggest that Dosanjh’s return is tied to the commencement of shooting for Border 2, the sequel to the 1997 war classic Border. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film features an ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, and Ahan Shetty. The movie is jointly produced by T-Series and JP Films, and is slated for a Republic Day weekend release on January 23, 2026.
Diljit had earlier confirmed his involvement through Instagram reels, also teasing a second upcoming film, No Entry 2.
