UPDATE: Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj has been removed from Zee5. ZEE5 has issued an official statement on Instagram, saying the film would be “unavailable in India until further notice” owing to “current developments”, without elaborating on the reasons behind the decision.
MELBOURNE, July 4, 2026: The film earlier called Punjab ’95. It just dropped uncut on ZEE5 Global on July 3, 2026. Satluj is a hard-hitting social drama based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a Sikh human rights activist from Punjab in the 1990s.
Khalra exposed alleged illegal mass cremations + fake encounter killings of thousands of Sikh youth during the Punjab insurgency period. The film tackles state violence, human rights, censorship, and the cost of speaking truth to power.It was stuck with India’s censor board for 3 years before ZEE5 released it “in full and without any cuts or compromises” globally. That’s why it’s trending now – people are calling it one of the most controversial Punjabi films to finally see release.
Initial response & reviews since it dropped on July 3, full critic reviews are still rolling in, but early buzz is that the audience on social media is split. Supporters praise Diljit’s performance plus the film finally releasing uncensored. Others expected more action/drama vs a slow-burn investigative film.
Director, Honey Trehan said, “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”.
Producer Ronnie Screwvala said, “At RSVP, we’ve always believed in backing stories that matter – stories that move you, challenge you, and stay with you long after the credits roll. Satluj, inspired by the life of martyr Jaswant Singh, is one such film. Honey’s passion and conviction made this journey truly special, and from the very beginning, we knew there was no one better than Diljit to bring this character to life with the honesty and depth it deserved. We’re grateful to Zee 5 for boldly championing a film like this and giving it a platform to reach the audience it deserves. We hope Satluj receives all the love and recognition it deserves.”
Described as “quiet, grim, and unflinching” vs typical Punjabi commercial cinema. Think Udta Punjab vibe but more docu-drama style. ZEE5 Global push means diaspora in Australia, UK, Canada, US can watch same time as India.
Lead Actor, 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.”
Why It Matters Now
Censorship Win: The uncut ZEE5 release ends a 3-year delay and has reignited debate on CBFC cuts vs artistic freedom in Indian cinema.
Diaspora Timing: Release coincides with peak global visibility for Diljit Dosanjh post-Coachella and Hollywood projects, driving higher interest among Punjabi/Indian diaspora in Australia, UK, Canada.
Melbourne Connect: With Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026 scheduled for July, Satluj is already entering local conversations about Punjabi history, identity, and representation in film.
Cast & Crew
Lead Actor: Diljit Dosanjh as Jaswant Singh Khalra; Director: Honey Trehan; Producers: RSVP Movies + MacGuffin Pictures; Previous Title: Punjab ’95 — withdrawn from Toronto International Film Festival lineup in 2023 due to censorship issues.
