Diljit Dosanjh's Satluj to Be Screened at Gurudwaras Across Five States After ZEE5 Takedown

Diljit Dosanjh's Satluj is set to reach audiences through community screenings at gurudwaras across five states after the film was removed from ZEE5 just days after its release. Sikh religious organisations have launched the initiative to ensure that the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra continues to be seen despite its removal from the OTT platform.

According to reports, screenings will be organised at gurudwaras in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Jammu over the coming days.

Key Highlights

• Satluj will be screened at gurudwaras across five states.
• The initiative follows the film's removal from ZEE5 within 48 hours of release.
• Community screenings aim to preserve the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra.
• SGPC and DSGMC have backed the screening initiative.
• The film previously faced a lengthy CBFC certification battle.

Community Screenings Planned Across Five States

Following the film's takedown from ZEE5, gurudwara committees across the country have reportedly joined hands to organise public screenings.

According to media reports:

• Gurudwaras in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Jammu will host screenings.
• In Jammu, the film is scheduled to be shown at four gurudwaras between July 10 and July 13.
• In Jaipur, a public screening has been announced for July 11 at the Baba Fateh Singh Auditorium in Chandi Ki Taksal Gurudwara.

The initiative is aimed at ensuring the film remains accessible to the Sikh community despite its absence from streaming platforms.

Why Are Gurudwaras Screening Satluj?

Sources associated with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) said the objective is to keep the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra alive.

According to those involved in the initiative, if audiences cannot watch the film online, community institutions can provide an alternative platform for viewing and discussion.

The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has also extended support to the screenings while reiterating its demand for the restoration of the film on ZEE5.

Why Was Satluj Removed From ZEE5?

The biographical drama premiered on ZEE5 on July 3 but was removed from the platform within 48 hours.

According to reports, the Centre directed the OTT platform to take down the film under provisions of the Information Technology Rules, citing security concerns.

Reports suggested authorities were concerned that the film could potentially trigger unrest or encourage pro-Khalistan mobilisation. However, no detailed official explanation has been publicly released.

A Film Delayed for Years

Before its digital release, Satluj had already faced years of delays during the certification process.

Originally submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) under the title Ghallughara, the film reportedly received 21 suggested cuts along with instructions to change its title to Punjab '95.

After the makers challenged the decision, the revising committee reportedly recommended 127 additional cuts and proposed changing the name of protagonist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The filmmakers declined those changes, resulting in a prolonged legal and certification battle.

The film eventually premiered in its uncut version on ZEE5 before being taken down two days later.

Diljit Dosanjh Reacts

Following the removal of Satluj from the streaming platform, Diljit Dosanjh commented that the takedown was "bound to happen."

The decision sparked criticism from Sikh organisations, including the SGPC, as well as several political leaders in Punjab.

About Satluj

Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated allegations of illegal cremations and disappearances during Punjab's militancy era.

The film stars:

• Diljit Dosanjh
• Arjun Rampal
• Suvinder Vicky
• Geetika Vidya Ohlyan

FAQs

Why is Satluj being screened at gurudwaras?

The screenings are being organised after the film was removed from ZEE5 to ensure the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra continues to reach audiences.

Which states will host the screenings?

Community screenings are planned in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Jammu.

Why was Satluj removed from ZEE5?

Reports indicate the Centre directed ZEE5 to remove the film citing security concerns under the Information Technology Rules.

Who was Jaswant Singh Khalra?

Jaswant Singh Khalra was a human rights activist known for investigating allegations of illegal cremations and enforced disappearances during Punjab's counter-insurgency period.

Who directed Satluj?

The film is directed by Honey Trehan and stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role.

Conclusion

Despite being removed from ZEE5 shortly after its release, Satluj is finding a new audience through community screenings organised by Sikh religious institutions. The initiative reflects efforts by community organisations to keep the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra accessible while the debate surrounding the film's removal continues.