Sardaar Ji 3 Sets Global Records Without Releasing in India: A Historic Win for Punjabi Cinema
When a regional film makes it to the top 12 movies at the North American box office, it becomes
When a regional film makes it to the top 12 movies at the North American box office, it becomes more than just entertainment it becomes a movement. Sardaar Ji 3, starring the charismatic Diljit Dosanjh and Hania Aamir, has done just that. Released on June 27, 2025, the movie didn’t just perform well internationally it broke records, sparked debates, and rewrote the rules for Punjabi cinema.
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The Powerful Comeback of Sardaar Ji Franchise
The Sardaar Ji series is no stranger to success. Starting with Sardaar Ji in 2015 and then its sequel Sardaar Ji 2 in 2016, the franchise quickly became a fan favorite. Now, with Sardaar Ji 3, the magic has returned — and in a much bolder, bigger way.
This third installment mixes horror and comedy, a rare but loved genre blend in Punjabi cinema. Directed by Amar Hundal, the movie was produced by Gunbir Singh Sidhu, Manmord Sidhu, and Diljit Dosanjh himself. The involvement of White Hill Studios and Story Time Productions ensured high-quality visuals and storytelling.
Indian Fans Outraged Over Actor’s Derogatory Remarks Against Hania Aamir
‘Sardar Ji 3’ Breaks Records for Popularity in Pakistan but Faces Resistance in India
Bold Casting Decisions That Changed the Game
The casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in a lead role brought not only freshness to the screen but also controversy. In light of the Pahalgam terror attack earlier in the year, many in India opposed collaborations with Pakistani artists. Still, the creators of Sardaar Ji 3 stood by their casting choice, choosing to prioritize art over politics.
This decision led to the film being banned in India, making it a no-show in Indian cinemas. However, it found immense support in Pakistan, the Middle East, North America, the UK, and Canada, where Punjabi-speaking audiences showed up in full force.
Sardaar Ji 3 Box Office Performance: Breaking Records Worldwide
Despite missing out on India’s massive box office market, Sardaar Ji 3 is rewriting history books. Within just two weeks:
- It earned $2.76 million in North America.
- The movie pulled in $751,660 in its second weekend alone.
- In Pakistan, it recorded PKR 3.5 crore (approx. USD 125K) on the first day, making it the biggest opening for any Indian film in Pakistan.
This horror-comedy is officially the third-best opening day for a Punjabi film, trailing only Carry On Jatta 3 and Jatt & Juliet 3.
International Reception: Applause Across Continents
What’s more impressive is how Sardaar Ji 3 has outshined even Hollywood titles. Competing with blockbusters like Jurassic World Rebirth and Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, the Punjabi film still managed to rank among the top 12 films at the North American box office a rare and commendable feat.
Moviegoers from Pakistan to Canada posted online about how much they laughed, cried, and loved the unique pairing of Diljit Dosanjh and Hania Aamir. In Lahore and Multan, auditoriums were jam-packed, and cinemas had to add extra shows to meet demand.
Diljit Dosanjh: The Face of Modern Punjabi Cinema
Diljit Dosanjh, a global star and youth icon, continues to prove his versatility. With Sardaar Ji 3, he doesn’t just act — he delivers a performance that blends comedy, emotion, and intensity.
Even amid backlash in India, Diljit remained calm. In a BBC interview, he stated, “When we shot the film, everything was normal. What happened afterward was beyond anyone’s control. We chose to release overseas, and the love we’ve received is beyond words.”
Why Hania Aamir Was the Perfect Choice
Casting Hania Aamir, already a big name in Pakistan, gave the movie a cross-border emotional appeal. Her character adds charm and depth, and her chemistry with Diljit was one of the most talked-about elements of the film.
Fans across social media praised her debut in Punjabi cinema, calling it “bold,” “magical,” and “refreshing.” In an Instagram story shared by Universal Cinemas, fans were seen cheering wildly, a testimony to her rising popularity.
Controversy Around Indian Ban: A Double-Edged Sword
The movie’s India ban, stemming from FWICE’s demand to deny certification, became a hot topic in both entertainment and political circles. Rupali Ganguly and other Indian celebrities openly criticized the film’s release abroad, calling it “confused loyalty.”
Still, the controversy only seemed to amplify the film’s international curiosity. Global audiences wanted to see what the fuss was all about and when they did, they loved it.
Production Quality and Cinematic Appeal
From the very first scene, Sardaar Ji 3 pulls you in. The visual effects, comic timing, musical score, and scenic locations make it feel like a polished international product.
Credit goes to the direction of Amar Hundal, who successfully balances horror with humor a difficult task even for mainstream cinema.
Impact on the Punjabi Film Industry
The movie’s success shows that regional films are no longer “small”. With streaming platforms and global audiences hungry for diverse stories, Sardaar Ji 3 sets a precedent. Now, producers may think twice before compromising on cast, story, or creativity due to political pressures.
Streaming Rights and Future Possibilities
While no official word has come regarding OTT release, buzz is that platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime are in talks. Given the global success, the film’s online release is likely to attract even more viewers, especially those in India who couldn’t watch it in theatres.
Audience Reviews: Love Across Borders
One Pakistani fan wrote:
“Loved every bit of it. You and Hania together OMG! I have laughed, cried, and smiled after ages watching a movie. This is exactly what we needed!”
Another viewer shared:
“12 shows back to back in Lahore. Houseful everywhere. Diljit Paaji, you nailed it again!”
The Legacy of Sardaar Ji 3
Sardaar Ji 3 will be remembered as a film that stood against odds and still made history. It has become a symbol of artistic courage, cross-border unity, and global success. Whether or not it ever sees an Indian release, its place in cinema history is already secure.
Conclusion: A Film That Changed Everything
Despite facing political bans, Sardaar Ji 3 managed to turn adversity into advantage. It broke records, warmed hearts, and proved that great storytelling knows no borders. This isn’t just a movie — it’s a moment in time for Punjabi cinema, and Diljit Dosanjh’s legacy has just grown even larger.
FAQs about Sardaar Ji 3
1. What is Sardaar Ji 3 about?
Sardaar Ji 3 is a horror-comedy that follows the supernatural adventures of a ghost hunter, played by Diljit Dosanjh. The mix of scares and laughs makes it a crowd favorite.
2. Why wasn’t Sardaar Ji 3 released in India?
Due to the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and rising political tensions post-Pahalgam terror attack, Indian film authorities blocked its release.
3. Is Sardaar Ji 3 available on streaming platforms?
As of now, the film is only available in international cinemas. OTT rights are expected to be picked up soon.
4. How did the film perform internationally?
The film earned over $2.76 million in North America alone and broke multiple records in Pakistan. It ranked 11th at the North American box office in its second week.
5. Will there be a Sardaar Ji 4?
There’s no official confirmation, but given the success of Sardaar Ji 3, fans are hopeful for another sequel.
