Diljit Dosanjh's highly anticipated film, originally titled 'Punjab 95', has finally seen the light of day under a new name, 'Satluj', premiering exclusively on ZEE5 on July 4, 2026. The film, which had been delayed for years due to censorship hurdles, is now available for streaming, much to the delight of fans.
Long-Delayed Release After Censorship Battles
The film, directed by Honey Trehan, faced significant delays after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) raised objections to its original title and content. According to sources, the CBFC demanded several cuts and a title change before granting a certificate. After years of negotiations, the makers agreed to rename the film 'Satluj' and make the required edits.
Diljit Dosanjh expressed his relief and gratitude in a statement: "This film is close to my heart, and I'm thrilled that audiences can finally watch it. The journey has been long, but the love we've received makes it all worthwhile."
Plot and Cast Details
'Satluj' is based on the true story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who exposed the illegal cremation of alleged militants in Punjab during the 1990s. The film stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role, alongside a supporting cast including Manu Rishi Chadha, Suvinder Vicky, and Jatinder Kaur. The narrative sheds light on Khalra's relentless pursuit of justice and the subsequent challenges he faced.
Digital Premiere on ZEE5
The decision to release the film directly on a digital platform was strategic, given the limited theatrical release possibilities due to the film's sensitive subject matter. ZEE5 announced the premiere on its social media handles, calling it a "powerful and necessary story." The platform expects the film to attract a wide audience, particularly among the Punjabi diaspora.
As of now, 'Satluj' is available in Hindi and Punjabi with subtitles in multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for a global audience. Early reviews on social media have been positive, with fans praising Diljit's performance and the film's compelling narrative.
Impact and Future Prospects
The release of 'Satluj' marks a significant moment for independent cinema in India, highlighting the challenges filmmakers face with censorship. Industry experts believe that the film's success on OTT could pave the way for more such stories to find a platform without theatrical constraints. Diljit Dosanjh, known for his versatility, continues to expand his repertoire with this socially relevant project.
