Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has defended singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, calling the backlash over Pakistani actress Hania Aamir’s role in Sardaar Ji 3 “unfair” and filled with double standards. Speaking in the Punjab Assembly on July 7, Mann reminded critics that “sada culture sanjha ae” — our culture is shared — and warned that politics often turns people against each other.
He said, “When governments want unity, they say ‘be brothers.’ When they want conflict, they divide us.” Mann also slammed the United States for selling weapons to both India and Pakistan while claiming to promote peace. His comments come after several film bodies demanded action against Diljit. In response, BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa and former DSGMC chief have spoken in Diljit’s favor, calling the outrage over his film one-sided and politically driven.
Mann’s strong defense highlights a larger debate around cultural exchange and artistic freedom. At a time when borders are hardening in public opinion, leaders like him are pushing back with calls for unity. Should artists be judged by political lines, or should creativity stay above it all?
