July 6, 2026 at 07:04 AM 2 min readentertainmentdeveloping

Diljit Dosanjh Starrer Satluj Removed From ZEE5 India Catalogue

OTT Takedown:

The biographical film Satluj, starring Diljit Dosanjh, was removed from the Indian catalogue of the streaming platform ZEE5 on July 5, 2026. Premiering only two days earlier on July 3, the film faced immediate unavailability in India due to cited current developments. While the platform remains committed to potential restoration, the title is still accessible via ZEE5 Global for international viewers. The film details the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra during the 1990s Punjab insurgency.

Controversial History:

Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, the film previously titled Punjab '95 underwent extensive censorship challenges spanning over three years. The Central Board of Film Certification reportedly mandated 127 cuts and a title change before approving the release. These hurdles included a withdrawn premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, reflecting the sensitive nature of the historical events depicted, which focus on the uncovering of unidentified bodies in Punjab.

Public Reaction:

Diljit Dosanjh addressed the removal in a live interaction, expressing his indifference to the ban and comparing the situation to the struggles of Jaswant Singh Khalra. Meanwhile, the film has surfaced on various pirated platforms, with online audiences sharing links rapidly. Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh publicly endorsed the film, calling it a must-watch and suggesting that historical truths cannot be concealed indefinitely. Industry observers are now watching for further official statements regarding the possibility of a future domestic release.
Pulse Intelligence
AI Analysis
  • The film faced significant censorship challenges with the Central Board of Film Certification for over three years.
  • The project was originally slated for a premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival before being withdrawn.
  • The film remains unavailable on ZEE5 India but continues to stream on ZEE5 Global.
  • Pirated versions of the content have begun circulating across digital channels following the official removal.
  • Debates regarding historical censorship and artistic freedom have intensified on social media platforms.

No direct market impact.