Popular Indian singer Mika Singh has stirred controversy by taking a direct dig at actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3. In a strongly worded message shared on Instagram Stories, Mika criticised the move as “irresponsible,” especially given the current strained relations between India and Pakistan.
Titled Desh Pehle (Nation First), Mika’s statement questioned the motives behind continuing artistic collaborations with Pakistani talent at a time when diplomatic ties between the two countries remain tense. “As we all know, the relationship between India and Pakistan isn’t going well right now. Yet some people continue to act irresponsibly,” he wrote.
Mika urged members of the entertainment industry to consider national sentiment and dignity before engaging in cross-border projects. “Before releasing any content that involves artists from across the border, they should think twice especially when our nation’s dignity is involved,” he said.
Referencing previous controversies, Mika mentioned a past film that featured Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, which faced significant public backlash. “There was a film featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor that many of us opposed, and yet, some still don’t seem to get the message,” he added.
In a more pointed attack, Mika criticised Diljit without naming him directly but referred to him as a “fake singer.” He claimed that the artist, after performing several successful shows across India attended by thousands of fans, has now distanced himself from the country. “What’s more shocking is that a fake singer, after doing 10 shows in India with thousands of fans buying tickets, has now disappeared leaving fans betrayed and helpless,” Mika alleged.
His remarks come in response to the news that Hania Aamir, a well-known Pakistani actress and social media personality, has been cast opposite Diljit Dosanjh in Sardaar Ji 3. The announcement sparked a wave of reactions online, with many praising the cross-cultural collaboration while others questioned its timing, given the current political climate.
The backlash intensified when, just a day later, singer B Praak appeared to weigh in on the controversy with a cryptic message that many believe was aimed at Dosanjh. Taking to his Instagram Stories, B Praak wrote in Punjabi, “Kayi artist apna zameer hi bech chuke ne, fittay mooh tuhade,” which translates to “Some artists have sold their conscience, shame on you.” The post quickly caught the attention of fans, who interpreted it as a subtle but sharp rebuke of Diljit’s involvement in the film. The timing of the message has only fueled speculation that B Praak has aligned himself with those questioning the ethics of cross-border collaborations during politically sensitive times.
Neither Diljit Dosanjh nor the production team behind Sardaar Ji 3 has officially responded to Mika Singh’s comments so far. However, the controversy has reignited a larger debate about the role of artists in politically sensitive times, and whether art should remain separate from geopolitics.
As of now, Sardaar Ji 3 remains on track for release, although it may continue to attract scrutiny in the days ahead.
