Pollywood superstar Diljit Dosanjh's much-awaited film, now titled 'Satluj', finally made its grand digital premiere on ZEE5 on July 3, 2026, after years of a relentless battle with censorship. However, in a shocking turn of events, the critically acclaimed biographical drama has been abruptly removed from the streaming platform for Indian audiences just two days post-release, sparking widespread concern and disappointment among fans and the industry alike.
The Journey from 'Punjab 95' to 'Satluj'
The film, originally conceived as 'Ghallughara' and later known as 'Punjab 95', underwent a significant title change to 'Satluj' for its OTT debut. This rebranding was a result of a protracted three-year struggle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which reportedly demanded a staggering 127 cuts and objected to the original title and various historical references. Despite these immense hurdles, both Diljit Dosanjh and director Honey Trehan confirmed that the version released on ZEE5 was uncut, retaining its original artistic integrity, with only the title being altered due to various reasons, including the inability to secure rights for the previous name.
A Story of Courage and Controversy
'Satluj' delves into the compelling and harrowing life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, portrayed by Dosanjh. The film bravely exposes the alleged extra-judicial killings and enforced disappearances that plagued Punjab during the militancy era of the 1980s and 1990s. Khalra's relentless pursuit of justice for thousands of unidentified bodies brought national attention to a dark chapter in history before his mysterious disappearance in 1995. The film's powerful narrative and unflinching portrayal of historical events have garnered immense praise, making its sudden removal even more perplexing.
ZEE5's Statement and the Path Forward
Confirming the removal, ZEE5 issued an official statement on July 5, 2026, announcing that 'Satluj' would be "unavailable in India until further notice" due to "current developments." The streaming giant expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response and reaffirmed its commitment to the film's creative vision, stating it is "exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity." While the film remains accessible in certain international regions, its fate for Indian viewers hangs in the balance. The Pollywood fraternity and fans are eagerly awaiting further updates, hoping this impactful cinematic masterpiece returns to screens soon.
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