03 July,2026 08:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Satluj. Pic via Instagram
After awaiting release for almost three years, Diljit Dosanjh's Punjab '95 has finally been released on OTT. The film, directed by Honey Trehan, which had been stalled due to excessive cuts by the CBFC was released without any cuts on OTT with a new title, Satluj.
Interestingly, the film was originally titled Ghallughara, a historic term for the massacres of Sikhs in 1746, 1762 and 1984. However, when producers at RSVP applied for certification from India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in late 2022, the six-month process concluded with the film cleared for 21 cuts and a mandated title change to Punjab '95. Opposing this, RSVP appealed the ruling in the Bombay High Court.
Consequently, the film's release has been stalled for several years, reportedly due to the CBFC seeking 127 cuts in the film. Trehan had previously told NDTV that it would "no longer reflect my direction. If they are enforced, I would remove my name from the film," he said.
Although the trailer was briefly released on YouTube, it was later deleted in India. In a tweet during January 2025, Diljit had announced that his film would be released in February 2025. However, it was later stalled. The singer-actor later told fans via Instagram that his film would not be released on the scheduled date due to circumstances beyond their control.
Helmed by Honey Trehan and produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, Satluj is headlined by Diljit Dosanjh alongside Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan. The film was released on Zee5 on July 3, 2025. Interestingly, the film has been released on OTT without any cuts, to align with the director's vision.
The film is inspired by the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh and his relentless pursuit of truth in the face of fear, power and silence. It is set during a time marked by conflict and unrest, exposing the haunting reality of thousands of unexplained disappearances.
Talking about the OTT release, Diljit Dosanjh said, "Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra ji's martyrdom and his contribution to humanity were the primary reasons I chose to be a part of this film. When I first heard the script, it moved me deeply, as it is rooted in the lived experiences, struggles, and sacrifices of real people. As an artist, opportunities to be part of such meaningful stories are rare. From the moment I heard the script, I felt a strong sense of responsibility towards the film and was committed to portraying such an inspiring character with truth, honesty, and utmost respect. Our film, Satluj, is a story of conviction, courage, and humanity, and portraying this character has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. I'm grateful that audiences across the world can finally watch the film on Zee 5 and connect with a story that is both deeply personal and truly a must-watch for all."
Director Honey Trehan shares, "From the very beginning, our intention was to tell this story with honesty, sensitivity, and without compromise. After a long wait, audiences will finally witness our labour of love and hard work. Satluj is not just the story of one individual; it is a tribute to the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity. Everyone associated with the film deeply believed in the importance of this narrative, as it draws inspiration from the life of the great martyr Jaswant Singh. I am delighted that it is now reaching audiences on Zee 5".
