Is Diljit Dosanjh Being Targeted Just Because of His Turban? Here's A Question To "Patriots"

Diljit Dosanjh Controversy: A storm of controversy has erupted around popular Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh, with several voices questioning his patriotism. But is this outrage truly justified, or is it rooted in something deeper, perhaps even discomfort with his identity?

What Sparked the Controversy?

The uproar began after the teaser of ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ was released, featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Critics pointed out her past controversial statements against India, including calling "Operation Sindoor" a "cowardly attack." This led to a backlash against Diljit, even though he is not the producer of the film.

Previously, when tensions flared between India and Pakistan, it was rumored that Aamir had been removed from the film. Diljit and co-star Neeru Bajwa even deleted their posts related to the project. But her presence in the teaser reignited criticism, especially from those who view the collaboration as insensitive.

Why Target Only Diljit Dosanjh?

This is the central question. ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ is produced by White Hill Studios, and Diljit is only one of the cast members, alongside Neeru Bajwa and Hania Aamir. Yet, only Diljit is being singled out. He neither financed the film nor hired Hania Aamir.

Is it fair to hold him accountable for decisions beyond his role? Or is there an underlying discomfort with his strong identity—a turbaned Sikh who has emerged as a global icon?

Is the Outrage Selective?

There’s a noticeable inconsistency in the backlash:

News channels continue to invite Pakistani experts to their panels and benefit from high TRPs. Where is the outrage?
Cricketer Ishan Kishan recently shared a selfie with Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Abbas during a match. There was no national outcry.
The 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup includes an India vs Pakistan match on October 5. Are the same people calling for a boycott of the BCCI or the Indian women’s team? Absolutely not.

Why, then, is Diljit Dosanjh being targeted with such intensity?

A Broader Reflection on Patriotism

The controversy has been further fueled by the recent tragic Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 Indian lives. The attackers are believed to be Pakistani terrorists. As a result, collaborating with a Pakistani actress is being equated with insensitivity or betrayal.

But where was this outrage after previous attacks?

Pulwama 2019: 40 CRPF jawans martyred.
Uri 2016: 19 Indian soldiers killed.

After each tragedy, calls to boycott Pakistan surfaced—but they faded quickly. Bilateral cricket continued. Trade resumed. Artists collaborated again. India played against Pakistan in:

2017 Champions Trophy
2019 Cricket World Cup
2021 T20 World Cup
2022 World Cup in India
2024 World Cup

So why is this time different?

A Question to the ‘Patriots’

Is this controversy truly about national interest? Or is Diljit Dosanjh’s turbaned identity making him an easy target in an increasingly polarised climate? Are we being fair in applying our standards? Or are we being selective in who we choose to label as “anti-national”?

If patriotism is sincere, it should be consistent. Otherwise, as Rahat Indori’s words remind us, this land belongs to all, and no single ideology has a monopoly on love for the nation.

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