The shooting of Ram Gopal Varma’s Police Company was stalled for nearly five hours on Monday at a set in Versova, after technicians and daily-wage workers affiliated with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) refused to work over Rs. 1.32 crore in pending dues dating back nearly nine years. The impasse ended after Rs. 1.11 crore was transferred to FWICE, following which work resumed.

Birendra Nath Tiwari, President of FWICE, says, “Varma, who owed money to technicians and daily-wage workers for three projects, including Sarkar 3 (2017) and Officer (2018), had written a letter to us in 2019, assuring us that the dues would be cleared at the earliest and requesting that he be allowed to continue working. We kept following up with him, but he continued to avoid the issue. We contacted him again when we learnt that he was preparing to shoot his next project, but for almost a month, we were told that the payment would be made shortly and were asked not to take action.”

The association eventually decided to halt the shoot over the unpaid dues. Ashok Dubey, Honorary General Secretary of FWICE, says, “On Monday, we had no choice but to stall the shoot. We asked the cameraman, fighters and members of the lighting department not to work until the payment was made. The outstanding amount involved several departments, including fighters, spot boys and the sound department. After almost nine years, the workers finally received the money that was due to them.”

FWICE Chief Advisor and President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Ashoke Pandit, adds, “It is high time producers recognize that technicians and daily-wage workers who contribute to completing a film also have families and responsibilities. We do not want to stop a shoot or cause difficulties because the producer can also suffer as a result. We will continue to seek action when payments are withheld.”

There was no response from RGV till the time of going to press.

Earlier in June, FWICE and Ram Gopal Varma clashed after the filmmaker took to social media to criticise the federation over its directive concerning Ranveer Singh’s Don 3. FWICE hit back at Varma, with Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit objecting to his remarks and questioning his credibility on the issue. Pandit alleged that Varma owes more than Rs. 1 crore in unpaid dues to technicians and daily-wage workers since 2017, including those who worked on Officer (2018).

He said Varma had assured FWICE in 2019 that the dues would be cleared, but the payments remain outstanding. Pandit also defended FWICE’s role in protecting the interests of technicians and workers, maintaining that the federation has a responsibility to intervene when members’ payments are withheld. The exchange added another layer to the ongoing friction between Varma and the federation.

Five days after a tragic accident claimed the life of a crew member on the set of Love & War, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali resumed the period drama’s shoot at Royal Palms in Goregaon on June 22. We’re told the latest schedule, which already faced months of delays, commenced under heightened safety measures.

In the wake of the accident that happened around 3 am on June 17, Bhansali Productions has apparently put an immediate stop to all night shoots of the Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal-starrer until further notice.

The demise of carpenter Chandradhari Yadav, 42, who was working on the film’s set when he allegedly suffered an electric shock, has naturally affected the crew.

A source from the set told mid-day, “The electric wire was loose and he got a shock. After the accident, the makers have decided that no night shoots will be conducted going forward. They have also ordered additional electrical inspections, mandatory safety audits before every shift, and stricter monitoring of on-set work conditions to prevent such an incident in the future.” 

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Following an accident that led to the death of a carpenter on the sets of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming film Love & War on June 17, Bhansali Productions has offered compensation of Rs. 40 lakh to the victim’s family.

The incident took place in the early hours of June 17 at Royal Pump Studio in Mumbai’s Film City, where 42-year-old carpenter Chandradhari Singh Yadav died after suffering a severe electric shock. Preliminary findings suggest a short circuit may have caused the electrocution.

FWICE general secretary Ashok Dubey says, “Humne Rs. 50 lakh kaha tha aur humne apni taraf se prayatna kiya hai for Yadav’s family to get maximum compensation. Unhone (production team) hume bataya hai that insurance se bhi Rs. 10-15 lakh direct victim ki family ko mil sakta hai.”

The film body’s chief advisor Ashoke Pandit adds that members are urging the administration to “form a joint committee to get an audit for old structures and check on safety measures”.

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We’ve been in talks with the production team since the day of the accident. Humne apni taraf se prayatna kiya hai for Yadav’s family to get maximum compensation.

- ASHOK DUBEY, FWICE GENERAL SECRETARY

An accident on the set of Love & War at Royal Pump Studio in Goregaon (East) claimed the life of 42-year-old Chandradhari Yadav, a carpenter and member of the Film Studio Setting and Allied Mazdoor Union (FSSAMU), at around 3 am on June 17. According to union representatives, the incident prima facie appears to have resulted from a short circuit, although the exact cause of death will be determined only after the post-mortem report is released. Chandradhari is survived by his wife and two daughters.

FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) and FSSAMU jointly approached the producers of the film seeking financial assistance and support for the bereaved family, following which Bhansali’s production house offered Rs. 40 lakh to Chandradhari’s family.

However, FWICE president Birendra Nath Tiwari believes the tragedy raises larger concerns about working conditions on film sets.

He says, “Apart from monetary compensation, we have requested the producer to take responsibility for the children’s education. Workers are often made to work far beyond the prescribed eight to ten hours, and there is a limit to how much a person can physically stretch themselves at work. Once the post-mortem report comes, we will decide our next course of action. No matter how big the producer is or how big a film is being made, workers’ lives cannot be put at risk.”

Ashok Dubey, honorary general secretary of FWICE, says, “Chandradhari had been working continuously on the set for the past three days and had been on duty from 7 am until 3 am on the day of the incident. According to those present, he suffered an electric shock and was rushed to hospital, where he passed away. We have also written to Mr Bhansali requesting employment for his wife in his production house.”

The incident has prompted industry bodies to once again call for mandatory safety protocols, defined working hours and government oversight on film sets.

Ashoke Pandit, president of IFTDA and chief advisor to FWICE, says, “We have repeatedly urged producer bodies, studios and government authorities to conduct regular audits of sets, electrical wiring and cabling, considering that 150 to 200 workers are often present on a set. There are lives at stake and significant investments involved in building these sets. Mandatory compliance with fire, electrical and structural safety norms and comprehensive SOPs is the need of the hour. Unfortunately, our appeals have not received any response from the authorities.”

Despite being one of Bollywood’s most prominent stars, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut says she remains largely disconnected from the film fraternity. Asked if she has received any reactions to her upcoming film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Ranaut responds, “Film industry people don’t message me.”

The remark also comes days after Ranaut weighed in on the controversy surrounding actor Ranveer Singh, whose reported fallout with sections of the film industry (Don 3 exit, FWICE’s non-cooperation directive and subsequent developments) has sparked debate in recent weeks. Drawing a parallel with her own experience, Ranaut had said, “You are asking me, I have been banned by everybody!”

The actor adds that criticism and opposition are often the price of success. “Main ye kehna chahungi ki jab haisiyat badhti hai toh dushman bhi badhte hain. Toh ab aisa nahi ho sakta ki aapki haisiyat badhe aur dushman na badhe,” she says.

Speaking about the importance of commercial success, Ranaut maintains that while an artiste’s worth cannot be measured solely by numbers, box-office performance remains crucial. “Films should work. As long as films work, they will be made. If films don’t work, they won’t be made. A film’s success is essential to the industry’s survival,” says the actor, who was last seen on screen in Emergency (2025).

However, she adds that an actor’s value extends beyond ticket sales. “Maybe economically, box office numbers do define an actor’s worth,” she says.

Ranveer Singh’s Don 3 controversy is far from abating. After the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) announced at the June 3 press conference that it is withdrawing its non-cooperation directive against the actor with immediate effect, mid-day has learnt that the Producers Guild of India is stepping in again to resolve the dispute between the superstar and producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

The Guild is expected to hold another round of discussions in the coming weeks. When mid-day reached out to Manish Goswami, vice-president, Guild, he refrained from putting a timeline to it, but agreed that the body will reconvene to resolve the issue that sparked when Singh apparently exited Don 3, to be directed by Akhtar, weeks before it was to roll.

“The Guild is yet to formally table the deal. From here, it can go two ways. We encourage an amicable resolution and hope the parties can resolve the matter through dialogue. But there is always the court route, if that falls through,” said Goswami.

The Guild’s meetings are expected to focus not only on resolving the current conflict, but also on establishing clearer industry protocols around actor commitments and safeguarding producers’ interests.

Meanwhile, sources, who worked on Don 3, revealed that Excel Entertainment — which alleged a loss of Rs. 45 crore due to Singh’s exit — made payments to all associated with the project. “All payments were cleared last month. To ensure there’s not another instance of loss of livelihood for technicians, we hope this incident changes things for good,” said a source.

On June 3, in a press conference, FWICE announced the withdrawal of its non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh. Earlier in the week, the actor reportedly served a legal notice to the cine body against its non-cooperation directive. FWICE President Birendra Nath Tiwari said at the presser, “On behalf of the Federation, we would like to request Ranveer Singh to come and sit with us… No one has won or lost in this matter. Our legal department will respond to his legal notice.”

FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit said the decision was taken following requests from other cine bodies.

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We all adore Ranveer Singh; we might not all be fans, but in an industry full of leading men who took themselves too seriously, he was a breath of fresh air. His knowledge of obscure movies and songs, his kitschy fashion sense made him relatable and interesting. Other stars were a little too “polished” and reserved. Enter Singh, who broke out into songs mid interviews, wore eye-watering pink suits, and said and did whatever he wanted.

But his wilfulness has earned the ire of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), which recently put out a non-cooperation directive against the actor after he pulled out of Don 3’s production. The May 25 notice requested around 38 different artist associations and unions to boycott any projects linked to Singh, and all hell broke loose.

In media reports, many have alleged that this is a tactic to get Singh to pay out the Rs 45 crore already invested in Don 3’s pre-production by Excel Entertainment and its owners, Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar. Industry stakeholders, though, insist that the real motive is to send a message: it’s high time that stars understand they cannot exit a project willy-nilly.

Either way, though, it’s the last rung of Bollywood that will suffer the most. Hundreds of technicians who committed their time and expertise to Don 3 have now lost weeks of work because of this mess. And even if FWICE’s boycott is carried out, once again, it’s technicians who will lose out on paying work.

“Throughout the recent developments surrounding Don 3, he [Ranveer Singh] has consciously chosen to maintain silence, believing that professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect.

While several narratives and speculations have surfaced over time, Ranveer has never considered it necessary to respond publicly or contribute to conjecture. His focus remains firmly on his work and the commitments ahead. Choosing restraint and grace in moments like these has always been a conscious decision on his part, and he will continue to maintain the same stance.”

The Cine Costume Make-up Artiste and Hair Association was established in 1951 and has grown to a 7000-strong membership, including almost every kind of artiste who works in Bollywood. The union head, Sharad Shelar, aka Sharad dada, is a senior spot dada who has worked with every actor one can imagine. He explains why Singh backing out of a mega project like Don 3 hits all the technicians attached to the film.

“Usually when actors as big as Ranveer [Singh] back out of projects, the film is shelved in its entirety. So let’s say a technician would have worked on that film for three months — he now has to look for a job to compensate for the lost income. And jobs in the industry have become scarce anyway because such big-budget movies are not made often anymore.”

Shelar is angry about the non-cooperation directive issued by FWICE, and alleges that none of the unions under the federation were consulted before the call was taken. “There are 38 registered unions under FWICE, my union alone has 7000 people. None of these producers or guild members spoke to us even once before banning Ranveer. There are no big movies being made that employ technicians by the dozens, and now they are asking us not to pick up some work we might get here and there also? We do not have that luxury,” he says. 

“The situation now is so bad that workers are beating each other up to get work for the day. If I say I will take Rs 100, another worker says he will work for Rs 50,” he rues, “Paristhiti itki vait aahe ki technician ekamekana panas rupe saathi martaath (Things are so bad, we’re beating each other up over Rs 50 work).” Then there are veterans who are masters of their craft, who refuse to squabble over pennies and end up jobless, he adds.  

Shelar, who turned 71 this year, tells us that associations like theirs have helped artistes with funds in medical emergencies, post retirement and even during weddings. But producers are nowhere to be found during their time of need.

Shelar says that he recently visited a movie set in Goa and realized that hardly any of the technicians were members of federations. “So they will not fight for us when big production houses employ, say, just five out of 25 technicians from unions. Then they’ll turn around and say don’t work with so-and-so artiste?” he asks.

The problem with such non-cooperation directives is that the daily worker really suffers. Ranveer and the directors/production house will not have much of a dent in their income, or they might make up for the loss somewhere else. But the technician can’t do that.

At a time when the film industry is in such dire financial conditions, we must keep our egos aside and work together. I hope the producers and Ranveer come to an understanding soon and the already struggling industry doesn’t take this unnecessary hit. Also, Don sabh ko dekhni thi (We all were looking forward to watching the movie)!”  

The top rungs of the industry don’t really get how bad things are for the last rungs of the industry right now. They are struggling to eat, pay rent, buy essentials, and now this non-cooperation directive will hit them too. The movie producers and star will move on from this, but they’re completely detached from the reality of how it will impact everyone else.

- Aditya Kriplani, Actor, director-producer

Ashoke Pandit, the head of FWICE, says that the trend of artistes pulling out from projects has been going on for too long. He hopes that practice will end once they draft an SOP on the time frame within which an artiste can back out of a project in good faith.

“It’s not about going against Ranveer Singh; we have seen this trend happening too often. Last month, I had a case where an assistant director and four people in their team told the producer at the last minute — just before they were to board a flight to the shoot location — that they were dropping out of the production,” he says. 

“We are currently in talks with all four  producer bodies, The Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA), Producers Guild of India and Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA) Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC), and we are trying to bring in some guidelines that will ensure accountability of not just actors, but anyone including a producer commits to an actor but drops them at the very last minute,” says Pandit.

As of now, the industry does not have any official guidelines on this issue. The lack of regulation is hurting the industry at a time when it is barely hanging on by a thread. “In the case of Don 3, the shoot was to begin, workers were flying in, hotel rooms had been booked. When an actor commits to a project in good faith, the production house takes their word for it and covers these pre-production costs. Excel [Entertainment] spent Rs 45 crore on this,” he adds.

Hirani & Associates is a full-service law firm in Bandra, specializing in IP, Media & Entertainment, and litigation advisory. The firm serves top-tier clients, including leading production houses, A-list talent, and international music labels. Founder Lavin Hirani has over 15 years of experience in India’s media and entertainment sector and has had clients such as Shah Rukh Khan, Sunny Deol, and Rana Daggubati, as well as major studios and streaming platforms.

On the Ranveer Singh–Don 3 dispute, Hirani says cases of this kind are not new to the industry, but that the sequence of events matters. “From what I understand, the film was announced in 2023 and stayed largely dormant for a long stretch. After Dhurandhar released and performed strongly, Ranveer exited the project,” he says.

“We don’t know precisely what happened. There are reports of creative differences, and the timing is worth noting, coming soon after a commercially successful release,” he adds. 

On the FWICE directive itself, Hirani is careful to separate what it is from what it can do. “A non-cooperation directive is not legally binding, and it is not a ban,” he says. “In practice it can create pressure toward a settlement and complicate an actor’s future productions, but it carries no force of law,” he adds. 

He also clarifies how the matter reached FWICE. “Going by FWICE’s own account, the directive did not originate from a complaint by Excel Entertainment directly. The grievance was filed by Farhan Akhtar, the director of Don 3, before the Indian Film and Television Directors Association, which then forwarded it to FWICE. The producers cited pre-production losses.”

Hirani notes the dynamic can run the other way too. “There are also cases where producers drop actors once a bigger star becomes available, and little is said about the effect on the actor who is let go,” he says. “As a general industry pattern, you also see actors keep more than one producer waiting before committing. These tensions are not one-sided.” 

He draws a structural contrast with Hollywood. “There, producers cannot hire outside the guild, and the guild disciplines producers who refuse to sign union contracts. Here, a federation is disciplining the actor for leaving a film. That inversion is structurally unusual rather than standard practice,” he observes.

On what follows if an actor is said to have breached, Hirani is precise about the remedies. “People loosely call it ‘specific performance,’ but a court will generally not order specific performance of a personal-service contract — you cannot compel an actor to perform,” he says.

“Occasionally a court may grant a narrow negative injunction restraining the actor from taking up competing work for the term of the contract, but that is rarely granted and tightly limited. In most cases the producer’s realistic remedy is a claim for damages.” He expects one of two outcomes. “Either a settlement that closes the matter, or litigation that does not.”

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE)’s decision to issue a Non-Cooperation Directive (NCD) has sparked reactions across the film industry and on social media. While many questioned whether a film body can “ban” an artiste, FWICE General Secretary Ashok Dubey clarified that the organization has not banned anyone.

Dubey tells us, “Agar ye trend chalta raha to kaafi filmmaker aur producers nuksaan mein jaayenge. Humne Ranveer Singh ko ban nahi kiya, humne toh non-cooperation bola hai. Federation ke members ka decision hai ye. Film body ka internal decision hai that our members will not work with him until the Don 3 matter gets resolved.”

Actor Manoj Bajpayee reacted to the controversy while speaking at the trailer launch of his upcoming film, when he was asked about safeguarding actors in such situations. As per PTI, while saying he hopes “the matter is resolved soon”, the actor clarified that he “does not have detailed information about it” and that the “industry currently only knows about the matter through social media”.

One of the first reactions came from filmmaker Sanjay Gupta, who questioned the move, arguing that banning an actor ultimately affects film productions and the livelihood of hundreds of crew members. Taking to X, Gupta wrote, “When an A-list hero shoots there are more than 300 workers working on sets. Ban him and you are not stopping him but depriving the workers of their livelihood. What sense does it even make???”

Reacting to Sanjay Gupta’s remarks, Ashok Dubey, General Secretary, FWICE, said film bodies have consistently supported filmmakers during production-related disputes. “I want to ask Sanjay Gupta ji that when his film Mumbai Saga (2021) was being shot and Jackie Shroff ne aane se mana kar diya, he came to us. IFTDA and FWICE intervened and sorted the matter. Where was this objection then?” he said.

What will be the fate of Ranveer Singh’s movies in the pipeline? That was the big question in the Hindi film industry after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), on May 25, announced a non-cooperation directive against the actor in relation to producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s complaint that he had abruptly exited Don 3 and allegedly caused significant financial losses to the project. The directive is likely to affect Singh’s slate, which has the ambitious zombie thriller Pralay and Aditya Dhar’s next on Chandragupta Maurya.

Pralay, directed by Jai Mehta, is slated to roll in August. Trade insiders say that the film — produced by Singh’s Maa Kasam Films, Hansal Mehta’s True Story Films, and Birla Studios — will involve nearly 500 technicians and workers across departments including action, lighting, costumes, make-up, art direction, and spot staff. Considering 34 vendor associations fall under the FWICE, the non-cooperation directive threatens to disrupt the film’s schedules. mid-day contacted Hansal and Jai for a comment on the film’s probable delay, but they didn’t respond till press time.

A source from the production, however, told mid-day that the directive would do more harm than good. “In the Hindi film industry, where over 70 per cent of the daily wage earners are already out of work because not many films are being made, shouldn’t the FWICE allow them to work instead of taking opportunities away with this directive? As for Pralay, in the worst-case scenario, Ranveer can take the cast and crew, and shoot the movie anywhere in India. While the FWICE’s stand applies to all of its members, it cannot legally stop non-members from working. If Pralay is shot outside Mumbai, the makers may bypass the FWICE-affiliated workers by hiring local crew members belonging to other unions,” said the source.

Ashoke Pandit, chief advisor, FWICE, is confident that the directive issued is the right approach in light of the situation. That said, the cine body is open to a resolution between Singh and Don 3 makers. When mid-day reached out to him, Pandit said, “The FWICE directive is effective because our federation has 34 vendor associations under it. If they don’t have vendors, workers, and technicians, who will they shoot with? People underestimate the strength of the federation. The situation can only be resolved if everybody sits together and sorts it out amicably.”

Sources indicate that producers of Singh’s upcoming projects may approach the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against the FWICE’s directive. In a 2017 case filed by filmmaker Vipul A Shah, the CCI held that practices such as issuing non-cooperation directives, preventing producers from hiring non-members, stalling shoots, and restricting the supply of services amounted to anti-competitive conduct under the Competition Act. A producer associated with one of Singh’s upcoming films said, on condition of anonymity, “If this situation escalates further, producers may collectively approach the commission for intervention.”

Chandragupta Maurya project, to be directed by Aditya Dhar and backed by Jio Studios. He is said to be in talks with YRF head honcho Aditya Chopra for a film

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The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has issued a Non-Cooperation Directive (NCD) against actor Ranveer Singh following his alleged last-minute exit from Don 3. The move comes after filmmaker Farhan Akhtar (director and producer of Don 3, alongside producer Ritesh Sidhwani) approached the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) on April 2, after which the matter was referred to FWICE for intervention. The federation said it had taken serious cognizance of the matter while remaining open to an amicable resolution.

Addressing the media at a press conference on Monday, attended by President Birendra Nath Tiwari, Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit, Honorary General Secretary Ashok Dubey and Treasurer Gangeshwarlal Shrivastav, the federation announced that none of its members or allied unions would work with the actor until the matter is resolved.

Detailing the sequence of events, Ashoke Pandit said, “As the head of IFTDA, I referred the matter to FWICE because it is a serious issue and involves significant financial stakes. We wanted all technician bodies/allied unions and associations to be involved because when a project stops, everyone is affected. The reason for Ranveer Singh’s exit was not disclosed, and we did not inquire into it because our primary concern was the timing of the withdrawal.”

Ashoke further revealed that the producers had already incurred substantial costs towards pre-production. “The production house has spent around Rs. 45 crore on pre-production. Ranveer signed a three-film deal with the producers and the entire recce of Don 3 was conducted in his presence. He was actively involved in script discussions, creative decisions, costume planning and other aspects of the project. He even shot the promo and remained part of discussions regarding the film after the release of Dhurandhar Part 1. Leaving a film three weeks before the shoot cannot be justified, irrespective of the reason.”

He continued, “Kal ko koi bada director film chhod de toh? That is the issue we want to address. It is not a question of a signing amount because paisa isne ek bhi nahi liya hai.”

According to Ashoke, the federation made multiple attempts to reach out to Ranveer before taking a decision.

He said, “As per protocol, we invited Ranveer three times to present his side, but did not receive any response. After we announced the press conference, we received a mail stating that the federation does not fall within the jurisdiction of this issue. Later, we received another email from his team expressing willingness to discuss the matter. We are open to discussions, but we want to meet him directly just as we met Farhan and Ritesh.”

On the producers’ demand, he added, “The aggrieved party is seeking compensation for the approximately Rs. 45 crore spent on pre-production. Their position is that it is okay if Ranveer is not doing the film, but the expenditure incurred on the project should be returned.”

Explaining the federation’s stand, Birendra Nath Tiwari said, “We have issued a non-cooperation directive against Ranveer. Ek message jaana chahiye industry ko ki agar koi superstar bhi hai woh kisi niyam se bada nahi hai. No member or federation associated with us will work with him until the matter is resolved. We are not saying he cannot work; we are only saying our members will not work with him for now. His team wrote to us stating that the federation does not have jurisdiction in the matter. Unko pata nahi federation bhi koi cheez hai. We are open to meeting Ranveer directly and not through any representative. Aap bhi hamaari industry ka hissa hain, aasmaan se nahi aaye hain. No superstar is above the rules of the industry.”

The directive extends to future projects as well. “We have discussed the matter with allied unions and taken a united stand. Spot boy se lekar bouncers tak kaam nahi karenge unke saath. Aaj jo Farhan ke saath hua hai woh kisi aur ke saath bhi ho sakta hai. We would react in a similar manner if a producer were to remove an actor or technician at the last minute. Once locations and production logistics are locked, one cannot step away from a project at the last minute. Responsibility is expected at every level,” he added.

Ashoke added, “The federation has no personal enmity against anyone. However, in the interest of the industry, we will not accept or overlook such disruptions. We stand committed to protecting those who keep the industry running and ensuring sustained job opportunities for technicians, workers and all crafts associated with filmmaking. The industry can only function collectively; it cannot be sustained individually. We must sit together and find solutions. We have celebrated Ranveer’s stardom, but accountability is equally important.”

Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta, however, criticized the move on X, writing, “When an A-list hero shoots, there are more than 300 workers working on sets. Ban him, and you are not stopping him, but depriving the workers of their livelihood. What sense does it even make (sic)???”

After signing for Don 3, Ranveer abruptly walked out in December 2025, only three weeks before the scheduled shooting of the film, leading to audited losses of approximately Rs. 45 crore for Excel Entertainment. The producers demanded reimbursement for these pre-production expenses. Following a failed mediation attempt, the dispute was elevated to the FWICE. Ranveer reportedly didn’t respond to three formal notices from the federation, with his team arguing that FWICE lacked jurisdiction over his contractual matters. Later, Ranveer’s team agreed to discuss the matter with the film body.

Soon after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a Non-Cooperation Directive (NCD) against Ranveer Singh, the actor’s team issued a statement

“Ranveer Singh holds the highest regard for the film fraternity and for everyone associated with the Don franchise. Throughout the recent developments surrounding Don 3, he has consciously chosen to maintain silence, believing that professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect. While several narratives and speculations have surfaced over time, Ranveer has never considered it necessary to respond publicly or contribute to conjecture. His focus remains firmly on his work and the commitments ahead.”

The statement further added, “He continues to hold deep respect and goodwill for all those involved and sincerely wishes the franchise continued success. Choosing restraint and grace in moments like these has always been a conscious decision on his part, and he will continue to maintain the same stance.”

With the unresolved feud between Ranveer Singh and Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani (Excel Entertainment), over Don 3 continuing to escalate, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) is now set to take a call on the matter. A crucial internal meeting involving FWICE President, Birendra Nath Tiwari, Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit, along with Hon General Secretary, Ashok Dubey and Treasurer, Gangeshwarlal Shrivastav, is expected to take place today which could determine the future course of the film.

Before reaching FWICE, a few months ago, the dispute was also discussed at the Producers Guild of India, where several senior producers reportedly attempted to mediate and resolve the matter amicably.

Post the internal meeting today, a press conference will be held announcing the federation’s decision. When Bombay Times reached out to Ashoke Pandit, he told us, “It’s a very serious matter, and this trend is very wrong. We are having an internal meeting first, and then we will be taking a call.”

He added, “We will not allow the industry to be doomed. Whatever we will do, it will be in the interest of the industry.”

The Don 3 controversy erupted after reports claimed Ranveer Singh had stepped away from the film shortly before the shoot was set to begin, leading to a dispute between him and the makers.

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Almost five months after Ranveer Singh exited ‘Don 3’ leading to a row with producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, the matter is expected to reach its resolution on May 25. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), whom filmmaker Akhtar had approached when the dispute reached a head, will announce its decision at 4 pm on Monday after its final meeting at 2:30 pm. Industry insiders have told mid-day that the body conducted two meetings with Singh and the makers over the past week.

An insider present at the discussions revealed that the conversations focused on the larger issue of stars walking out of projects at the last minute. “Everybody agreed that this cannot become a pattern. Not every film will become a blockbuster like ‘Dhurandhar’ [2025]. If actors begin exiting projects days before schedules begin, smaller producers will collapse under the pressure,” shared the insider.

Singh, who was attached to ‘Don 3’ since its announcement in 2024, walked out the film in January. Akhtar reportedly filed a legal suit against the actor and approached the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) in April, alleging that nearly R46 crore had been spent on ‘Don 3’ prep. A source revealed, “After three reminders, Ranveer’s team eventually responded over e-mail saying the matter was not within the association’s purview.”

According to sources, FWICE’s decision on May 25 could also see the body announcing the introduction of a formal framework to discourage abrupt exits by talent.

Mumbai: The civic body is all set to impose entertainment tax after Sept 2026, once the state urban development department gives its assent to the BMC. The civic body, which intends to impose the tax on theatres, multiplexes, bowling alleys, cable TV providers, public ticket-based shows, discotheques, pubs, pool parlours, exhibitions, races, and circuses, among various forms of entertainment, is looking at mopping a revenue of over Rs 500 crore; in 2016-17, it had collected Rs 376 crore from entertainment tax levied in the city.

The prospect of film tickets becoming costlier in Mumbai looms large after the fresh imposition of entertainment tax, said experts. Nitin Datar, president of the COEAI (Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India), said, "Since the GST levy was implemented, the Centre had allowed individual states to collect entertainment tax. But Maharashtra and some northern states have not implemented it."

The BMC budget document stated that as per the amendment to Maharashtra Entertainment Duty Act, the responsibility for collecting entertainment tax/fees previously levied by state govt, has been entrusted to the local authorities.

It also stated the state revenue and forest department had extended the exemption from entertainment duty from Sept 16, 2017, to Sept 30, 2026, and accordingly a proposal has been submitted to the urban development department. "We will be seeking data from the revenue authorities that are the district collectorate and will follow the model and features of the tax system adopted by them, while they levied the tax. However, that would be subject to the urban development department approving our proposal," said an official.

Datar said, "Many states in the south were levying this tax, but Maharashtra was not doing so. There are many taxes that businessmen pay to the Centre and to the states. Now with the imposition of this tax in Mumbai, it is almost certain that ticket prices will rise. The quantum of increase depends on the percentage. If 10% entertainment tax is levied, in multiplexes the ticket cost will rise from say Rs 100 to Rs 110, but in a single-screen theatre where tickets cost Rs 30-40, maximum Rs 80, even a three or four rupee increase means a lot."

Nitin Tej Ahuja, CEO, Producers Guild of India, said, "I have not reviewed the BMC tax proposal so I am yet to ascertain what it entails and what its implications are. Conceptually, however, we have made many representations to the central as well as various state govts against local bodies charging entertainment tax. The underpinning principle behind the introduction of the GST regime was ‘One Nation One Tax' and one doesn't understand the rationale why the entertainment industry should be singled out for additional levies. The whole idea behind GST was to subsume all these multiple taxes into one tax."

Birendea Nath Tiwari, president of FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees), said, "The film and television industry has only recently stabilized after years of pandemic losses and the sharp impact of OTT platforms on theatrical footfall. Any re-introduction of entertainment tax at the municipal level must be handled very cautiously. If the levy directly increases ticket prices, the immediate burden will fall on the common audience, and that ultimately reduces footfall in theatres—which again affects workers and daily-wage technicians across the industry."

"FWICE believes the objective of revenue generation for the civic body should not come at the cost of revival of cinema exhibition. We request that either the tax be kept nominal or structured in a way that it is not passed on to consumers. Otherwise exhibitors, already struggling with maintenance, electricity and rental costs, will face additional financial pressure. If ticket prices rise, audiences shift faster to digital platforms, and that harms the entire ecosystem— producers, distributors, theatre owners and thousands of workers."

"Therefore, any policy must balance civic revenue with protection of employment and theatrical business sustainability. FWICE expects ticket prices may increase if the tax is directly applied per ticket, unless the govt caps or absorbs part of the levy. Theatres could face further financial strain, especially single-screen cinemas, unless concessions or differential rates are provided."

Leading film industry bodies met in Mumbai on Saturday (February 14) to chart urgent action following recent threat calls and extortion attempts targeting members of the Hindi film fraternity.

Representatives of the Producers Guild of India, Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA), and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) convened at the IMPPA office in Andheri at noon. Those present included Guild members Nitin Tej Ahuja and Shibasish Sarkar, along with FWICE president Birendra Nath Tiwari and senior representatives from other bodies. IFTPC president Ratan Jain could not attend but extended his support to whatever decision was taken.

The meeting follows threats targeting actors Salman Khan and Ranveer Singh, and filmmaker Rohit Shetty, among others. “This is no longer about isolated incidents. There is a palpable sense of fear. When leading actors and directors receive threats, the anxiety trickles down to every unit member, from spot boys to assistant directors. This is how Sikandar (2024) was shot following threats on Salman Khan and in the past year, the fear has only escalated,” a source told mid-day.

The bodies resolved to draft a joint letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking immediate intervention.

“We will collectively urge the state to ensure protection not just for high-profile celebrities, but for entire film units. Shoots involve hundreds of daily wage workers. Their safety cannot be compromised,” an insider told mid-day.

The source added, “If there is disruption due to fear or extortion, it directly impacts livelihoods of workers on set. These are regular people trying to make an honest earning. Films will be impacted because fear will drive people out of the industry.”

The upcoming film Ghooskhor Pandat, starring Manoj Bajpayee and directed by Neeraj Pandey and Ritesh Shah, has sparked controversy over its title since its announcement last week. What began with objections on social media has escalated, with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) calling the title “offensive and derogatory” and demanding a ban.

The row has since spilled into the political and legal arena. A writ petition has been filed before the Delhi High Court challenging the show’s proposed release, alleging that its title and promotional material are defamatory and communally offensive. FWICE has also written to OTT platforms and producers, arguing that the title singles out a particular community and its traditional livelihood in a manner that could hurt sentiments and disturb social harmony.

“FWICE is absolutely against making a mockery of any community,” says Birendra Nath Tiwari, president of the union. “We are demanding not just a change of title but a ban on the film, because the intent is evident in the title itself. Such things may have been tolerated earlier, but they are unacceptable today.”

He added that if the release is not stalled, FWICE will issue a non-cooperation notice against the producer, director and cast. “It is shocking that someone like Neeraj Pandey would make a film like this and that Manoj Bajpayee agreed to be part of it,” Tiwari said, also calling for mandatory registration of OTT titles to prevent such controversies.

Responding to the backlash, Manoj Bajpayee shared a statement on social media on Friday, saying he respects the concerns raised. “When something you are part of causes hurt, it makes you pause and listen,” he wrote, adding that his decision to do the film was driven by the character and its journey, not a commentary on any community. He also said the makers have taken down the promotional material in light of public sentiment.

The makers of the film, including Neeraj and Ritesh, as well as the OTT platform, did not respond to queries till the time of going to press.

The film’s title has also triggered strong political protests in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, with members of Brahmin organizations demanding a ban and alleging that the project targets a particular community. In Uttar Pradesh, the state government ordered the registration of an FIR against the film’s director over the title. Effigies of the filmmakers and actor Manoj Bajpayee were burnt at multiple locations.

Actor Kartik Aaryan, 34, has denied any involvement with an Independence Day event in Houston (USA) after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) raised concerns over the organizers.

In an official letter, FWICE claimed that the event, Azadi Utsav – The Indian Independence Day, is being organised by Aga’s Restaurant and Catering, a “Pakistani-owned restaurant”. The body further pointed out that the same organisers are also promoting Jashn-e-Azadi, a Pakistan Independence Day celebration, along with a concert by Pakistani singer Atif Aslam.

Responding to that, the actor’s team issued a clarification that read: “Kartik Aaryan is not associated with this event in any capacity. We have contacted the organisers and requested to remove all promotional materials featuring his name and image.”

FWICE’s letter also stated that “the simultaneous promotion of Indian and Pakistani national events by the same establishment not only creates a conflict of interest, but also violates the ongoing national sentiment and directives”.

A day after Diljit Dosanjh shut down rumours of his exit from Border 2 by posting a BTS video from the film’s set, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) officially lifted its ban on him, clearing the way for him to resume work on the project. The ban was imposed following backlash over the release of Sardaar Ji 3 that features Pakistani artiste Hania Aamir. However, the truce appears temporary.

The decision was taken after Border 2 producer Bhushan Kumar told the federation that 80% of the scenes with Diljit had already been shot, and that he would not work with Dosanjh in the future. In a written statement submitted to FWICE, Bhushan Kumar reportedly said he would “never cast Diljit Dosanjh in future films.”

FWICE president Birendra Nath Tiwari was quoted as saying that the decision to lift the ban came after two meetings with Kumar, who explained that the film was already 80-85% complete. “They’ve already shot Diljit’s portions, and only a song remains,” Tiwari said.

“At this stage, he can’t replace him, but Bhushan Kumar assured us he won’t work with anyone who is in the middle of a dispute again.” The federation, however, made clear that the exemption applies only to the current project.

Diljit Dosanjh continues to find himself in hot water for going ahead with his film Sardaar Ji 3’s release overseas, which stars Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. And amid the growing voices against him is a demand to remove him from the upcoming film Border 2. While some reports suggest that Diljit is no longer part of the movie, we have exclusively learnt that there is no such development yet.

“There is no plan to replace or remove Diljit from Border 2. The announcement about his casting was made almost nine months ago, before the unfortunate occurrence (Pahalgam terror attack). Almost 50% of the film’s shooting is done, so making any change at this point is not possible,” says a source.

Recently, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) wrote a letter to the film’s makers, urging them to drop Diljit from the film. FWICE also wrote a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah, urging them to withdraw the permission to shoot Border 2 at the National Defence Academy in Pune.

We reached out to co-producers Bhushan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta, but there was no response till the time of going to press.

Neeru Bajwa, Diljit’s co-star in Sardaar Ji 3, has deleted all the social media posts about the film from her Instagram feed. However, she posted a song from the film on her Insta Story yesterday.

Singer Guru Randhawa recently took to X to share a cryptic post, which was perceived as a dig at Diljit. However, as of Friday, Guru’s X account was not available, implying that he deactivated it. Guru’s X post read: “Lakh pardesi hoyieee, Apna desh nhi bhandi daa. Jehre mulk da khayie, us da bura nhi mangi da (sic)”, which translates to “even if you become a foreigner, you should never betray your own country. One should never wish ill for the country that provides for them”.

Bad Newwz actor-singer Ammy Virk is being considered by the makers of Border 2 as a possible replacement for Diljit Dosanjh. This development comes after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) publicly appealed to the producers to drop Diljit from the film.

FWICE raised objections over Diljit’s involvement in Sardaar Ji 3 opposite Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, calling it “unacceptable” in light of current India-Pakistan relations. The organization urged the makers of Border 2—a patriotic war film—to replace the actor.

For the unversed, Diljit started filming the war film last week in Pune with the other cast members Sunny Deol and Ahan Shetty.

A source close to the production shares, "Diljit only shot for 3-4 scenes. Makers were contemplating replacing the actor, as right now they can easily reshoot those scenes. The makers are directly handling this matter and Ammy's name cropped in the discussion."

With the controversy intensifying, sources say Ammy Virk has emerged as a frontrunner.

Despite repeated attempts Nidhi Dutta, the producer of the movie didn't respond to our queries till the time we went to the press. Ammy and Diljit's representatives also chose to not comment.

Diljit Dosanjh landed himself in serious trouble with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) as his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. FWICE wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key union ministers, demanding strict action — including revocation of passports and even cancellation of Indian citizenship of Diljit and the film’s team.

In a strongly worded letter, FWICE President Birendra Nath Tiwari, urged the Prime Minister of India, the Home Minister, the Minister of External Affairs, and the Minister of Information & Broadcasting to take strict and immediate action against the key people involved in the film. The letter read, "Diljit Dosanjh, Gunbir Singh Sidhu, Manmord Sidhu and Director Amar Hundal, the public personalities enjoying the privileges of Indian citizenship, have committed an unpardonable act by hiring Pakistani actress Ms. Hania Aamir in their upcoming film 'Sardaar Ji 3'. This decision is not a mere creative choice -- it is a wilful affront to the sovereignty, dignity, and security of India. Their actions clearly reveal where their loyalties lie — not with India, not with Indian cinema, and certainly not with the people of this country.”

In a statement on Instagram, singer Mika Singh criticised Diljit and wrote, “Desh Pehle (Nation First): Guys, as we all know, the relationship between India and Pakistan isn’t going well right now. Yet some people continue to act irresponsibly. Before releasing any content that involves artists from across the border, they should think twice – especially when our nation’s dignity is involved.”

He added, “There was a film featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor that many of us opposed, and yet, some still don’t seem to get the message. What’s more shocking is that a fake singer, after doing ten shows in India with thousands of fans buying tickets, has now disappeared – leaving fans betrayed and helpless.”

In a lengthy post on Instagram, CEO of Ripple Effect Studios Sonali Singh, who has been managing the artiste, wrote how “Diljit has chosen to respect the sentiments of the Indian public and authorities and is not releasing the film in India, standing in alignment with the nation’s current mood.”

Excerpts from her post: This recent wave of criticism surrounding his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji, due to the presence of a Pakistani co-star, is both disheartening and unfair especially considering the timing and the nature of the project. The film was shot long before the current political climate intensified.

What hurts the most is this: On one hand, the global media celebrates him as the first Indian to perform at Coachella, to appear on Jimmy Fallon carrying his traditional identity, to walk the Met Gala carrying his culture & roots. And every single time, he proudly carries India with him.

But on the other hand, in his own country how quickly we forget. How conveniently we celebrate him when he puts India on the map, and how easily we trash him when the narrative turns. Does anyone think this doesn’t break his heart? Does anyone imagine how demoralizing it is to fight for visibility as a brown Indian artiste on the world stage and still have to fight for belonging in India? Diljit is the same man who: Was addressed by the honorable Prime Minister as “Bharat ke gaon ka beta”, a recognition of what he truly represents. Cancelled a major US show overnight when FWICE requested knowing it would cost him crores and invite a two-year legal battle in a foreign country. He handled it all silently and respectfully, without retaliation. The damage was personal and he bore it alone. Chose to stand by his producers not to protect himself, but to protect the families behind the film.

(Diljit) carries the Indian flag on his shoulders, proudly, as he leads the wave that’s transforming India’s live entertainment economy with authenticity, humility, and unmatched pride. Helped lift regional cinema especially Punjabi onto the global map. And now, that same man is being dragged down by a manufactured storm.

Sardaar Ji 3’s team also issued a clarification in a post on Instagram, stating that the film was shot before the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. “Sardaar ji 3 was shot well before the prevailing situation that our country is facing now and it was never ever the case that any Pakistani artiste was signed or was engaged after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We stand united with our country and our fellow countrymen during this sensitive time. Considering the same, we had decided not to release the film or any of its promotional content in India until the situation becomes opportune,” they wrote.

Addressing the film, which is set for an overseas-only release, Diljit said in a BBC Asian Network interview, “Jab yeh film bani thi tab toh situation sab theek tha. Humnein shoot kiya tha February mein. Toh producers ne decide kiya ki film obviously ab India toh nahi lagegi, toh isko overseas release karte hain . Unka (producers) bahut paisa laga hua hai aur jab yeh film bann rahi thi tab aisa kuch tha nahi. Unke dimag mein hai ki loss toh hoga hi kyuki ek territory aap minus kar rahe ho. Maine bhi jab film sign ki thi tab sab theek tha. Ab situation hamare haath mein hai nahi. Toh bahar release karna chahte hai toh main saath hoon.”

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Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh is facing heat for casting Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. With tensions high after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, and a renewed ban on Pakistani artistes, calls to boycott the film and Diljit are intensifying.

The makers have clarified that the film will not release in India, and Diljit, who also co-produced it, has now broken his silence. Speaking to BBC Asian Network, he said many decisions were out of his control and backed the producers’ call for an overseas release: “Jab yeh film bani thi tab situation sab theek tha. We shot this in February... Uske baad, bahut saari badi cheezein humare haath mein nahi hai. Producers ne decide kiya ki film obviously ab India mein toh nahin lagegi, toh overseas release karte hain. Producers ka bahut paisa laga hua hai aur jab yeh film bann rahi thi tab aisa kuch tha nahin. They know there will be a loss because you’re removing an entire territory. Even when I signed the film, everything was fine. Now the situation is not in our hands. So, if the producers want to release it abroad, I support them.”

The makers of Sardaar Ji 3 have released a statement that echoes Diljit’s remarks: “This is to bring to everyone’s kind notice that the film named Sardaar Ji 3 was shot well before the prevailing situation that our country is facing now, and it was never ever the case that any Pakistani artist was signed or was engaged after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.”

The note further read, “We stand united with our country and our fellow countrymen during this sensitive time. Considering the same, we had decided not to release the film or any of its promotional content in India until the situation becomes opportune”.

“When an entire country is against that nation, you cherry-pick a Pakistani actor. You are trying to be arrogant, trying to be careless about the emotions of this country. That is why FWICE has taken note of it. Diljit has not responded and condemned what this actress [Hania] has spoken about Operation Sindoor and our country,” says Ashoke Pandit, chief advisor of Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE).

Birendra Nath Tiwari, president of FWICE, disputes Diljit and the makers’ claim that the film will face major financial losses if it is not released. He emphasizes that the federation holds no personal grudge against Diljit but insists that the call for action is in the country’s best interest. He says, “Film ka foreign mein shoot hua hai, Pakistan ke 4-5 artiste hain, aur Diljit itne bade star hain, to paise to lagenge. Agar paise itne hai, to hum chanda ikatha kara sakte hai aur India se de denge. India mein bohot patriotic.”

Singer Mika has called Diljit irresponsible for working with a Pakistani actor. On Insta Stories, the singer asserted that India’s interests should come first, given the strained Indo-Pak relations. He wrote, “Before releasing any content involving artists from across the border, they should think twice — especially when our nation’s dignity is at stake.”

He also referenced Abir Gulaal — starring actor Fawad Khan, which was denied a theatrical release in India amid controversy — saying it should have served as a lesson for Diljit before choosing to work with Hania.

Sonali Singh has defended him. Part of her Insta post read, “In a career spanning over two decades, Diljit Dosanjh has become a cultural icon not only for India but for the global stage. Yet, time and again, he has been placed under the scanner, especially as a proud Sikh, a Punjabi, and an artist who has chosen to represent India with quiet pride rather than loud declarations. Despite being repeatedly targeted, Diljit has never resorted to outrage. His consistent message in interviews, music, films, and public appearances has always been rooted in love, unity, and kindness.”

Inputs by Yashika Mathur

Diljit Dosanjh’s Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3, featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is going for an overseas-only release. Post the Pahalgam attack and India’s Operation Sindoor, this is the first Indian film with a Pakistani actor which is set to be released, because of which it has faced a lot of backlash online. While some fans felt “betrayed”, others were disappointed by the decision to release the film.

Amid the ongoing hostilities between India and Pakistan, Abir Guaal starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vani Kapoor was not released keeping the national sentiment in mind. Post Operation Sindoor, the social media handles of many Pakistani artistes, including Hania’s, were also blocked in India.

​Reacting to the news of an overseas release, Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) President Birendra Nath Tiwari says, “They have time till June 27 to apologize to the film industry and the country and say that they will not release the film. If they don’t, we will not let them release their other films too, be it Diljit or the producers. We will not let them have a concert here. The entire film industry and federation will take the strictest action against them. We will give the producers of Border 2 a letter that there’s a risk if they continue to work with Diljit.”

​While Diljit has not directly commented on the issue, he shared a link to his interview with Panos Panay, President of the Recording Academy (which presents the Grammys), in which he says, “Countries are at war, and we don’t have control over these things. But I believe music is something that unites nations. I feel blessed to be part of something that spreads love across nations... I think we need to look beyond nations and focus on Mother Earth.”

​Diljit posted about the film’s overseas release, along with a link to the trailer. However, the YouTube trailer link leads to a message that says, “The uploader has not made this video available in your country.”

​Reacting to the trolling that Diljit is facing after he posted about the film’s release, director Onir wrote, “Fools just need a reason to troll artists especially if they are not from the majority community. They don’t know anything about film making to realise that @diljitdosanjh film was not shot, edited and ready for release in two months. Was shot much before the horrific attack and an artist once the film is shot has no right to when and where its released. The film is NOT getting released in India and he is NOT the producer to be able to stop it. So stop the ignorant narrative (sic).”

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After weeks of speculation, Pakistani actor Hania Amir’s involvement in Diljit Dosanjh’s Sardaarji 3 has officially been confirmed.

On Monday, the actor-singer dropped the film’s trailer on social media, and it seems Hania has a meaty role in the film. The move has prompted strong reactions from film bodies in particular following the terror attack in Pahalgam.

After Operation Sindoor, there has been a ban on Pakistani artistes and a crackdown on their social media profiles in India. The trailer is currently unavailable in India and the film will not release in the country, but the move to cast Hania is being seen by many as “anti-national”.

Anger is mounting among major film federations. Ashoke Pandit, president of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), tells us, “We had written a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) earlier, and they refused to give it a certificate.”

He adds, “I had seen Hania’s tweets as well during Operation Sindoor. We are going to take action and tell the producers to not work with [Diljit]. He should be boycotted by music labels and Punjabi film industry. Diljit is a compulsive Pakistani lover.”

Birendra Nath Tiwari, president of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) echoes a similar sentiment: “Federation ne soch liya hai 100%. Jo nation ke saath nahin, woh humare saath nahin. Hum deshdrohiyon ke saath kaam nahin kar sakte. It doesn’t matter if the film is not releasing in India — they (actors) shouldn’t come to India only.”

When we reached out to the film’s director Amar Hundal, he said, “Main ispe kuchh nahin bolna chahta hoon.”

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Diljit se lekar film ke producers ko, sab ko ban kar denge India mein, dobara film nahin bana payenge. Jo nation ke saath nahin, woh humare saath nahin.

- B N Tiwari, President, FWICE

We are going to take action and tell producers to not work with Diljit. He should be fully boycotted in the country by music labels and Punjabi film industry.

- Ashoke Pandit, President, IFTDA