Amid simmering political tensions and an unofficial boycott in India, Sardaar Ji 3 has delivered a historic performance in Pakistan, setting a new record for the highest first-day earnings by any Indian film released in the country.
Released exclusively in overseas markets on June 27, the Punjabi-language film raked in approximately Rs4.5 crore (USD 500,000) on its opening day. Its strong debut eclipsed the previous record held by Salman Khan’s Sultan, a remarkable feat considering the ongoing ban on Bollywood content and a struggling cinema industry in Pakistan.
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Despite not releasing in India following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the film was met with packed theatres across Pakistan, especially in Punjab’s urban centres. Audiences were drawn in by the supernatural storyline, performances by Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa, and the buzz around Hania Aamir’s controversial casting.
Producer Gunbir Singh Sidhu admitted that the absence of the Indian market led to an estimated 40% revenue loss. However, the film still managed to become the third-highest overseas opener for a Punjabi film. Diljit Dosanjh clarified that the decision to release it abroad was a financial move, agreed upon with producers due to the film’s investment-heavy production.
Sardaar Ji 3‘s success reflects the enduring appeal of Punjabi cinema beyond borders, even in the face of diplomatic roadblocks and shifting regional narratives.
