Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has deleted a social media post in which he strongly defended Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh, who is facing backlash for his collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in the upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. Though the post is no longer visible on his official Facebook page, it sparked conversations around artistic freedom and cross-border cultural exchange.

Naseeruddin Shah's support for Diljit Dosanjh

In the now-deleted post, Shah had unequivocally supported Diljit, addressing the controversy surrounding the film’s casting. “I STAND FIRMLY WITH DILJIT. The dirty tricks deptt of Jumla Party has been awaiting a chance to attack him. They think they’ve got it at last,” Shah wrote.

He emphasized that casting choices lie with directors and producers, not actors. “He was not responsible for the casting of the film, the director was. But no one knows who he is whereas Diljit is known the world over, and he agreed to the cast because his mind is not poisoned.”

Shah’s post also criticized rising intolerance around India-Pakistan collaborations. “What these goons want is to put an end to personal interaction between the people of India and Pakistan. I have close relatives and some dear friends there and no one can stop me from meeting them or sending them love whenever I feel like it,” he asserted.

He concluded his statement with a bold jab at detractors: “And my response to those who will say ‘Go to Pakistan’ is ‘GO TO KAILASA.’”

Despite the bold message, Shah later deleted the post without offering an explanation. His silence on the deletion has led to speculation about whether it was due to backlash or personal choice.

Diljit Remains Unfazed as Sardaar Ji 3 Gains Momentum

Meanwhile, Diljit Dosanjh appears unfazed by the controversy. The singer-actor remains committed to the worldwide release of Sardaar Ji 3, the latest in the successful comedy franchise. He even shared a glimpse of how the film is being warmly received in Pakistan — a subtle but clear statement of unity through art.

The casting of Hania Aamir, a popular Pakistani actress, drew criticism from some political quarters, but fans across borders have welcomed the collaboration.

As debates continue around creative freedom and nationalism, voices like Shah’s — even when deleted — highlight the ongoing tension between political posturing and artistic collaboration.