Actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh has spoken out after his film Satluj, originally titled Punjab ’95, was removed from ZEE5 in India just days after its digital premiere. While the film is no longer available for viewers in India, it continues to stream internationally on ZEE5 Global.
Addressing fans during an Instagram Live session, Diljit said the decision did not catch him off guard and claimed he had anticipated the film’s removal.
“I Was Expecting It”
Sharing his reaction, Diljit revealed that he believed the film would be taken down shortly after its release.”I expected it to happen. I thought it would be removed on Monday, but it happened a day earlier.”
Despite the development, the actor said he was encouraged that many people had already watched or downloaded the film before it disappeared from the Indian platform.
Actor Says The Story Has Already Reached People
Reflecting on the controversy, Diljit alleged that attempts to suppress Punjab’s voice have continued for decades. “Trying to silence Punjab since 1995.”
He added that, regardless of the streaming platform’s decision, the story portrayed in the film had already reached audiences and could no longer be ignored.
No Industry Support, Says Diljit
The actor also revealed that the team behind Satluj did not seek assistance from either the Punjabi film industry or Bollywood while trying to secure the film’s release.
According to Diljit, the makers spent several years overcoming challenges independently without approaching industry colleagues for support.
Tribute To Director Honey Trehan
Praising director Honey Trehan, Diljit said the filmmaker invested years researching the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, on whom the film is based.
He explained that the project involved years of research, production and post-production before remaining delayed for an extended period, describing the film as the result of nearly seven years of dedication.
Film Continues Overseas
Although Satluj has been withdrawn from ZEE5 in India, it remains available for international audiences through ZEE5 Global.
The film explores the life and work of Jaswant Singh Khalra, whose efforts to document alleged human rights violations made him a widely recognised figure. Diljit said he has been encouraged by the public response, particularly from younger audiences who are learning about Khalra’s legacy through the film.
Featuring performances by Diljit Dosanjh, Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljeet Singh, Suvinder Vicky and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, Satluj continues to generate discussion despite its removal from the Indian streaming platform.
