Naseeruddin Shah Brushes Off Backlash Over Diljit Support

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has firmly responded to backlash over his support for Diljit Dosanjh. Amid speculation that he deleted a Facebook post praising Diljit’s collaboration with Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, Shah clarified he didn’t remove anything—and he’s unbothered by the criticism.

“I have NOT deleted my post about Diljit Dosanjh. I don’t care a fiddler’s fart for backlash,” Shah wrote bluntly on Facebook. His firm stance reinforces his bold reputation for always speaking up and supporting fellow artists and meaningful cross-border collaborations without hesitation.

In screenshots circulating across Indian media, Naseeruddin Shah allegedly criticized what he described as the “dirty tricks department of the Jumla Party,” accusing them of deliberately targeting Diljit Dosanjh. He emphasized that Diljit wasn’t responsible for the film’s casting decisions — that role belonged to the director.

Adding further context, Shah explained that the real issue stemmed from Dosanjh’s global fame. He reportedly remarked that no one even knows the director, but people recognize Diljit worldwide, and he chose the cast with a clear mind. Through this statement, Shah suggested that Dosanjh became an easy target simply due to his influence and clean intentions.

Naseeruddin Shah strongly condemned efforts to block cultural ties between India and Pakistan. He stated, “What these goons want is to stop personal interaction between the people of India and Pakistan.” He emphasized that no one could stop him from meeting loved ones in Pakistan or sending them love whenever he wishes to. To critics who tell him to “go to Pakistan,” Shah firmly replied, “Go to Kailasa.”

He backed his message with a Lichtenberg quote, noting truth often offends: “It’s hard to carry truth without burning beards.” This quote emphasized Shah’s belief in speaking truth despite the backlash.

Shah’s comments come as Diljit Dosanjh faces criticism from right-wing groups and film bodies for working with Sohail Ahmed. The film, released internationally and in Pakistan on June 27, did not secure an Indian release, sparking bans and protests. Despite the backlash, Dosanjh defended the film’s producers and their choice to release it abroad.

In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Dosanjh clarified that when he signed the project, the political climate was stable. “After that, there were developments beyond our control,” he explained. He also expressed support for the producers’ decision, noting it was made to avoid financial loss. “If they want to release the film abroad, I stand by them,” he stated.