Public screenings of the movie “Satluj,” based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, are being organized in several villages of Punjab’s Majha region after its removal from an OTT platform. Downloaded copies of the film are being widely circulated, and youth groups are using projectors and large screens to hold night-time screenings in the open courtyards of village gurdwaras, attracting large gatherings.
Screenings Across Districts
On Tuesday night, the movie was screened in Pandori village in Amritsar district; Shekhupura and Panjwar villages in Gurdaspur district; and several villages in Tarn Taran district. In Gurdaspur, sports promoter Sultan Singh organized a special screening for local athletes and villagers in his native village. Akali Dal Waris Punjab De leader Rashpal Singh Sosan confirmed that screenings were held in Daroli Bhai and Ghal Kalan villages on Tuesday night, drawing a large audience. He added that the party plans to organize screenings in four villages of Moga on Wednesday.
Political and Religious Support
Apart from local youth, several religious organizations and political groups have joined the initiative by arranging public screenings. Sosan alleged that attempts to stop the movie would not prevent people from learning about Khalra’s life and sacrifice. “Khalra laid down his life while revealing the truth, and the facts depicted in the film cannot be suppressed by restricting its availability,” he said.
Background of the Film
“Satluj” chronicles the struggle of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who exposed illegal cremations and human rights abuses in Punjab during the 1990s. The film was removed from an OTT platform recently, prompting widespread demand for its reinstatement and leading to these grassroots screenings.
Community Response
The screenings have been well-received, with villagers gathering in large numbers to watch the film. Organizers say the move is a testament to the public’s desire to honor Khalra’s legacy and ensure his story is not forgotten.
