In a dramatic twist that has jolted Bollywood’s production corridors, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has slammed the makers of Border 2 for casting Diljit Dosanjh, calling it a direct violation of their official directive. The union, representing over five lakh technicians and workers in the film and television industry, has expressed deep disappointment and concern in a strongly worded letter addressed to T‑Series, JP Films, and director Anurag Singh.
FWICE Letter to Border 2 Producers & Director
The FWICE has issued a letter addressed to Bhushan Kumar (Chairman & Managing Director, T-Series), producers JP Dutta and Nidhi Dutta of JP Films, and director Anurag Singh.
FWICE’s communication begins by asserting its representation of “the core workforce of the Indian film and television industry” and strongly states, “The core workforce of the Indian film and television industry is deeply disappointed and concerned by the casting of actor-singer Mr Diljit Dosanjh in your upcoming film Border 2…”.
The letter goes on to accuse the production of committing a “blatant violation of FWICE’s official directive” to boycott the singer-actor—issued in response to his collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3.
The union’s message is laced with patriotic fervour and pointed criticism:
“Such actions are a disservice to the sacrifices made by our armed forces and citizens who continue to face the consequences of cross‑border hostilities and terrorism.”
It further brands the casting as “disturbing,” stressing:
“Engaging an individual who has recently chosen to prioritise personal gain over national respect by associating with talent from a hostile nation… not only defeats the spirit of the film but also sends a disheartening message to every Indian.”
The union explicitly demands an immediate reassessment, stating:
“We hereby request you to immediately reconsider your casting decision. FWICE urges you to stand by the nation and the industry’s collective stand. Let us reiterate—for us, the nation comes first, and we expect the same unwavering commitment from every respected member of the film fraternity.”
This marks a significant escalation from an earlier boycott warning to legal notices, now directly challenging the values of major production houses and talent networks.
FWICE had urged boycott of Diljit Dosanjh Following Sardaar ji 3
The union hasn’t stopped at Border 2. FWICE has reportedly issued legal notices to producer Bhushan Kumar, Sunny Deol, and even director Imtiaz Ali for considering Diljit for future projects, describing these collaborations as part of a broader violation of their boycott directive. FWICE had previously urged a boycott of Diljit Dosanjh following his work with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3.
FWICE’s hardening stance follows the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of civilians and sparked fierce national sentiment. This was followed by India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror camps across the border. FWICE connects these events to its long-standing 2019 directive against employing Pakistani artists, reinforcing its position.
FWICE had also appealed to the CBFC and government ministers to block Sardaar Ji 3’s release in India, demanding passports of those involved be revoked.
Counter-Narratives Stir Debate
Amidst the controversy, Diljit’s former manager Sonali Singh defended him, emphasising his contributions to Indian culture and his support for independent filmmakers, stating: “Diljit is the same man who was addressed by the Honourable Prime Minister as ‘Bharat ke gaon ka beta’…” . Singh went on to highlight that the inclusion of Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3 was part of a smaller project not backed by big corporates, and accused critics of forgetting his cultural ambassadorship and contributions to cinema .
What Lies Ahead for Border 2?
The highly anticipated sequel, directed by Anurag Singh and produced by JP Dutta’s banner alongside T‑Series, features a star-studded cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit Dosanjh. Scheduled for release on January 23, 2026, it now finds itself at the centre of a heated ideological standoff.
With FWICE actively pushing for a cast rethink and issuing legal notices, the production team is under increasing pressure. As of now, there has been no public comment from Diljit or the film’s makers regarding the FWICE’s demands.
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