In a significant development for the Indian film industry, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has lifted its ban on actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, allowing him to continue his role in the highly anticipated war drama Border 2. The decision follows intense controversy sparked by Dosanjh’s collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, which had cast doubts on his participation in the patriotic sequel. Producer Bhushan Kumar’s personal appeal to the federation played a pivotal role in reversing the ban, though FWICE has issued a stern warning about future collaborations with the actor.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy erupted after the overseas release of Sardaar Ji 3 on June 27, 2025, which featured Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a supporting role. The film was not released in India due to heightened tensions following a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025. FWICE, representing the Indian film and television industry’s workforce, condemned Dosanjh’s decision to work with a Pakistani artist, citing it as disrespectful to Indian sentiments. The federation issued a non-cooperation order against Dosanjh and urged the makers of Border 2—a sequel to the 1997 war epic Border—to reconsider his casting. Letters were sent to producers Bhushan Kumar, JP Dutta, Nidhi Dutta, and director Anurag Singh, emphasizing the patriotic significance of Border 2 and questioning Dosanjh’s involvement.

Bhushan Kumar’s Intervention

The turning point came when Bhushan Kumar, chairman of T-Series and a producer of Border 2, personally appealed to FWICE to allow Dosanjh to continue filming. FWICE President BN Tiwari confirmed that the ban was revoked specifically for Border 2 after Kumar’s plea. “Yes, the ban has been revoked for this project,” Tiwari stated, acknowledging the producer’s efforts to resolve the issue. This decision ensures that Dosanjh, who portrays the legendary Indian Air Force officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon in the film, remains part of the star-studded cast, which includes Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, and Ahan Shetty.

FWICE’s Conditional Approval
While FWICE has permitted Dosanjh to continue working on Border 2, the federation has maintained a cautious stance. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, associated with FWICE, clarified that the non-cooperation order against Dosanjh persists for future projects. “Anyone else who casts him must be prepared for consequences. The Federation won’t be responsible for the financial losses that might follow,” Pandit warned. He emphasized that Border 2 was exempted because it does not feature Pakistani actors and centers on the Indian armed forces, aligning with the federation’s values. This conditional approval underscores the delicate balance between artistic freedom and national sentiment in the Indian film industry.

Diljit Dosanjh’s Response

Amid swirling rumors of his replacement, Dosanjh took to Instagram on July 2, 2025, to share a behind-the-scenes video from the Border 2 set in Pune, effectively silencing speculation. The clip shows him stepping out of his vanity van in an Air Force uniform, warmly greeted by the crew, and preparing for a dance sequence set to the iconic Border song “Sandese Aate Hain.” Captioned simply “BORDER 2,” the post reaffirmed his commitment to the project. Fans and industry observers praised Dosanjh’s resilience, with many taking to social media to express support and counter the backlash.

Industry and Public Reaction

The controversy has sparked a broader debate about artistic collaborations across borders, particularly in the context of India-Pakistan relations. Dosanjh’s former manager, Sonali Singh, defended him, highlighting his contributions to elevating Punjabi cinema on the global stage. “In a career spanning over two decades, Diljit Dosanjh has become a cultural icon not only for India but for the global stage,” she wrote, urging critics to recognize his role as an ambassador of Indian culture. Meanwhile, social media sentiments remain divided, with some praising Dosanjh’s talent and others questioning his choices amid geopolitical tensions.

Looking Ahead

Border 2, directed by Anurag Singh and produced by JP Dutta, Nidhi Dutta, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar, is set for release on January 23, 2026. The film, a sequel to the 1997 blockbuster, promises to deliver a patriotic narrative centered on the 1971 Indo-Pak war. With filming progressing in Pune and Dosanjh’s role secured, the project is poised to be a major cinematic event. However, the lingering non-cooperation stance from FWICE signals potential challenges for Dosanjh’s future endeavors in the Indian film industry.

Conclusion

The lifting of the FWICE ban on Diljit Dosanjh for Border 2 marks a significant resolution to a heated controversy, driven by producer Bhushan Kumar’s intervention. While Dosanjh’s participation in the war drama is now confirmed, the federation’s ongoing non-cooperation stance for other projects highlights the complexities of navigating artistic expression and national sentiment. As Border 2 continues production, Dosanjh’s supporters and critics alike will be watching closely, both on set and on screen.