Diljit Dosanjh may have seen this coming. Just days before ‘Satluj’ was pulled from Zee5 in India, the actor had already spoken to fans about the possibility, and a video of that conversation is now circulating widely. (Also Read: Explained: ‘Satluj’ pulled from Zee5, here’s everything that led to this moment for the Diljit Dosanjh film)
In a viral clip from a livestream interaction, Diljit spoke to fans in Punjabi about the fear that the film could be removed from Zee5. He said there was a chance the film would come down on Monday, but added that by then, people would have already downloaded it.
He seemed unbothered by the possibility, telling fans not to worry and adding that anyone trying to stop the film could go ahead and try.
Diljit stayed calm even then
Another portion of the same livestream, also making the rounds online, showed Diljit staying relaxed about the situation. He said there was no tension left since everyone had already downloaded the film. He added that he was sitting there completely tension free.
Why the film skipped theatres entirely
Satluj never had a theatrical release in India. It went straight to streaming under its new title after the Central Board of Film Certification reportedly asked for more than 120 cuts.
According to reports, the suggested changes were not minor. They reportedly included altering the film’s title, removing references to Punjab, and changing details tied to the identity of the real life person the story is based on.
The story the film tells
Originally titled Punjab 95, the film follows human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and his fight for justice during one of the darkest periods in Punjab’s history. Based on true events, it documents Khalra’s investigation into the alleged illegal cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies during the militancy era.
Once the film was actually removed from Zee5, Diljit responded publicly through an Instagram post written in Punjabi. He used the hashtag ichallengethedarkness, paying tribute to Jaswant Singh Khalra directly. He referenced the film’s earlier title, Punjab 95, and said that what happened to the film mirrored what happened to Khalra himself.
Zee5’s official statement
Zee5 confirmed the removal through a statement on social media. The platform said the response to Satluj had been truly overwhelming, thanking viewers who subscribed, watched, and supported the film since its release.
The statement added that Zee5 continues to stand by the film, its makers, and its creative vision. The platform said it is exploring legal options through due process in an effort to bring the film back to Indian audiences as soon as possible.
Who else is part of the film?
Satluj is directed by Honey Trehan. Alongside Diljit Dosanjh, the film also features Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles.