Chardikala (also titled Zakhma Ton Chardikala Tak) is a 2026 Punjabi biographical drama directed by Amarjit Singh Saron and starring Ammy Virk, Roopi Gill and Himmat Sandhu. The film is based on the life of Bibi Bimal Kaur Khalsa, the wife of Beant Singh—one of Indira Gandhi’s assassins in 1984—and follows her struggles in the aftermath of the Prime Minister’s killing, Operation Blue Star and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
What the film is about
The story centres on Bimal Kaur Khalsa (mother of Faridkot MP Sarabjit Singh Khalsa) and portrays her personal and political journey after 1984. It premiered internationally and was screened at the 79th Cannes Film Festival in May 2026, where it drew attention before its Indian release was held up.
Why it faced a certification row in India
The film became one of the most debated Punjabi releases of 2026 because of its sensitive subject matter and the way it treats figures linked to 1984.
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CBFC certification refusals: The Central Board of Film Certification’s Examining Committee (May 26, 2026) and Revising Committee (July 14, 2026) both refused certification, saying the film dealt with a “highly sensitive social and political theme,” threatened law and order, and risked “glorification of assassins” that could undermine societal norms.
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Jurisdiction issue: During the producer’s appeal in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, it emerged that the orders were passed by authorities lacking proper delegated power under the Cinematograph Act at that time; the court noted this violated Section 4 of the 1952 Act.
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Religious-political objections: Several Sikh organisations and religious groups objected to the dramatic depiction of modern Sikh martyrs and personalities connected to 1984, citing an Akal Takht directive that bars dramatising Gurus, their families, companion Gursikhs and Sikh martyrs. This broader debate over “empathy vs glorification” and historical representation fueled protests and calls to block the film’s India release.
Latest status (as of mid‑September 2026)
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On September 6, 2026, the CBFC wrote to the High Court withdrawing its May and July refusal orders.
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The Regional Officer told the court the matter will be considered afresh by the competent authority after giving the appellant (Mad4 Films) an adequate opportunity of hearing.outlookindia+1
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The High Court accordingly disposed of the appeal, paving the way for a fresh certification review rather than an outright ban.
Overseas reception vs India delay
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While stuck in India’s certification process, the film reportedly did well overseas, with claims of a strong opening day collection abroad.
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Supporters frame it as a story of resilience and survival; critics argue the subject remains too volatile given its links to Operation Blue Star, the assassination and the 1984 riots.
Timeline of key events
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May 2026: Chardikala screens at the 79th Cannes Film Festival.
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May 26, 2026: CBFC Examining Committee refuses certification.
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July 14, 2026: CBFC Revising Committee upholds refusal.
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July 3, 2026: Punjab and Haryana High Court instructs CBFC to expedite certification process.
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September 6, 2026: CBFC withdraws May and July refusal orders after jurisdiction concerns are raised in court.
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Mid‑September 2026: High Court disposes of appeal; film moves to fresh CBFC review.
Key quotes and reactions
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CBFC Regional Officer (to High Court): Orders dated May 26 and July 14 refusing certification to Chardikala have been withdrawn; the matter will be considered afresh by the competent authority after giving the appellant an adequate opportunity of hearing.
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Punjab and Haryana High Court: Noted that the earlier orders were passed by authorities lacking proper delegated power under the Cinematograph Act, violating Section 4 of the 1952 Act.
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Sikh organisations: Cited Akal Takht directive barring dramatisation of Gurus, their families, companion Gursikhs and Sikh martyrs, objecting to the film’s portrayal of modern Sikh martyrs and 1984-linked figures.
What to watch next
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Fresh CBFC review: The film’s India release hinges on the outcome of the new certification process, with the CBFC now required to give the producer a hearing before making a fresh decision.
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Broader debate: The case highlights ongoing tensions around dramatising a contentious issue as the certification process moves forward.
NOTE- Most of the above text or descriptions have already appeared in the Indian media & readily available on the net.The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this report/article/video/viewpoint/opinion are solely those of the author or authors and do not necessarily represent the editorial policies of the South Asia Times (SAT) or the www.southasiatimes.com.au
