Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', previously known as 'Punjab 95', has been released on the streaming platform ZEE5 after facing multiple hurdles. The biographical drama is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who disappeared in 1995.
Film Details and Cast
Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, 'Satluj' features a cast including Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan. The film underwent three title changes before its release.
Diljit Dosanjh's Statement
Dosanjh expressed his deep connection to the project in a press note: 'Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra ji's martyrdom and his contribution to humanity were the primary reasons I chose to be a part of this film. When I first heard the script, it moved me deeply, as it is rooted in the lived experiences, struggles, and sacrifices of real people.' He added, 'Our film, Satluj, is a story of conviction, courage, and humanity, and portraying this character has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career.'
Director's Perspective
Director Honey Trehan said, 'From the very beginning, our intention was to tell this story with honesty, sensitivity, and without compromise. After a long wait, audiences will finally witness our labour of love and hard work. Satluj is not just the story of one individual; it is a tribute to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.' He noted the film draws inspiration from the life of martyr Jaswant Singh Khalra.
Platform Executive's Comment
Kaveri Das, Business Head, Hindi ZEE5, described the film as 'about courage, resilience, and the fight for justice, and it deserves a platform that will stand behind it with conviction.'
Title Changes and Certification Challenges
The project originally carried the title 'Ghallughara', a historic term for the massacres of Sikhs in 1746, 1762, and 1984. When RSVP applied for certification from India's Central Board of Film Certification in late 2022, the six-month process resulted in the film being cleared with 21 cuts and a mandated title change to 'Punjab '95', as reported by Variety. RSVP appealed the ruling in the Bombay High Court. Around the same time, the film was withdrawn from its planned gala premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival; a source told Variety that political factors influenced the decision.
Final Title and Release
Trehan stated in a Variety interview, 'We could not get the previous title of the film. The title is now 'Satluj'.' The film is now available for streaming on ZEE5 without cuts, as confirmed by Dosanjh on social media.
