Dawn Images

Pakistani celebrities are rallying behind Hania Aamir after the trailer for Sardaar Ji 3 made it abundantly clear that she’s a part of the film — and a major one at that.

As many wondered if Sardaar Ji 3 would undergo recasting or if Aamir’s role would be axed following the conflict between India and Pakistan — the aftermath of which saw Pakistani celebrities and content being banned in India — the trailer comes as a sigh of relief. Aamir appears front and centre, ghostbusting alongside Diljit Dosanjh in a haunted UK castle in the comedy thriller.

Earlier, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees president, BN Tiwari threatened to oust Dosanjh from Bollywood for including Pakistani actors. But Dosanjh went ahead and shared the trailer to his Instagram, revealing that the film would release “overseas only” on June 27 — a move sure to ruffle feathers!

As expected, the announcement sparked backlash in India, and Pakistani stars are making it clear they’re here for Aamir, her craft, and the historical significance of her presence in an Indian film in such polarising times.

“I am so happy and proud of you,” wrote Zara Noor Abbas on her Instagram story, adding that Aamir was on her way to Hollywood, if God wills.

Yasir Hussain said that while many actors have worked in Indian films, Aamir’s role holds historical significance. Given the current circumstances, her presence in the movie is a testament to a powerful performance, he added.

The sentiment was echoed by Anoushey Ashraf, who said that while others settled for side roles and background energy, the Dil Ruba actor is “out here making main-character moves across borders.”

“Pakistani talent, front and centre. Love to see it!” Ashraf added.

For Zoya Nasir, Aamir is a star through and through. Yashma Gill, Maria Unera, Asad Siddiqui and Hira Khan poured in support for Aamir, making it clear just how proud they were of her. “What a beautiful sight to watch,” Siddiqui wrote.

Earlier, when Dosanjh came under fire from Indian film authorities, rumours began circulating in both Indian and local media that Aamir had been dropped from the film.

However, as Adnan Zafar now points out, those claims were unfounded. He also congratulated the Mere Humsafar star on the film’s release and shared his excitement, saying he couldn’t wait to see it hit screens.

Set to be released this Friday, Sardaar Ji 3 didn’t cede to calls for censorship or the removal of Pakistani actors from its cast. Despite growing pressure from certain Indian film bodies and public figures, the filmmakers stood by the original team.

Instead of bowing to political pressure, they opted to skip the Indian release altogether, choosing to cater to a broader international audience where the fanbase for Punjabi cinema continues to grow.