Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann supports Diljit Dosanjh, criticizes attacks on Punjabis

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann defended singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who faced backlash for casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his film Sardaar Ji 3.

Bhagwant Mann noted the film was shot before the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, arguing it’s unfair to call Dosanjh a "gaddar" (traitor).

"A Pakistani actress acted in the film, which was made earlier. She speaks Punjabi—our cultures are similar," Mann said at an event. "Now a Pakistani hockey team is set to play in India, and that’s somehow acceptable?"

The Centre recently approved Pakistan’s participation in the Asia Cup hockey tournament in Bihar, set for August 27–September 7.

Bhagwant Mann accused self-proclaimed nationalists of unfairly targeting Punjabis, claiming jealousy drives such actions. He criticized the ban on the film, calling it unjust.

He also highlighted Punjab’s key contributions to national food security and defense.