Key Facts
The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has called for public screenings of the film 'Satluj' after its sudden removal from streaming platform ZEE5. The committee condemned the removal as an attempt to suppress the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who uncovered mass cremations in Punjab during the 1990s. Meanwhile, director Honey Trehan revealed that actor Diljit Dosanjh agreed to star in the film without charging any fee and remained steadfast despite production delays.
Details of the Controversy
'Satluj', originally titled 'Punjab ’95', has faced censorship hurdles for over three years. Its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023 was withdrawn despite not requiring CBFC certification. Later, the CBFC demanded 127 cuts, which the makers refused. The filmmakers allege they were prevented from private screenings and pressured to withdraw court cases. After a brief release on ZEE5, the film was removed. An Information and Broadcasting Ministry official stated it was taken down because it evaded certification and released under a different name.
Diljit Dosanjh's Contribution
Director Honey Trehan shared that when he first approached Diljit Dosanjh about the film, the actor immediately said, 'There’s only one story from Punjab worth making if it isn’t about 1984.' Upon seeing Khalra's photograph, Dosanjh placed the research book on his forehead and agreed to participate. Trehan confirmed Dosanjh did not charge any fee and remained patient despite scheduling issues, often reassuring the director: 'Paaji, no problem. Whatever you’re doing, you’re doing for the film.'
DSGMC's Response
The DSGMC issued a statement criticizing the film's removal, calling it 'deeply wrong' and sparking outrage in the Sikh community. The committee urged all Gurdwara members to download and screen the film locally. Additionally, they plan to hold meetings with school and college chairpersons to organize seminars on Jaswant Singh Khalra's life and legacy, emphasizing the impact one activist can have on society.
Background of Jaswant Singh Khalra
Jaswant Singh Khalra was a social activist who exposed the extrajudicial killings and cremations of over 2,500 people in Punjab during the 1990s, allegedly with the involvement of Punjab Police. He was later abducted and killed. A CBI investigation led to life imprisonment for several police officers. The film 'Satluj' depicts his story and stars Diljit Dosanjh, Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky, Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, and Kanwaljit Singh. It is co-produced by RSVP Movies and Macguffin Pictures.
What Readers Should Know
- 'Satluj' is a biographical film on Jaswant Singh Khalra, a key figure in uncovering human rights abuses in 1990s Punjab.
- The film faced censorship and was removed from ZEE5 after a brief release.
- Diljit Dosanjh acted without payment and supported the project through delays.
- DSGMC is organizing public screenings and educational seminars to ensure the story reaches the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was 'Satluj' removed from ZEE5?
The film was removed reportedly because it bypassed the CBFC certification process and was released on OTT under a different name, according to an Information and Broadcasting Ministry official.
Did Diljit Dosanjh charge a fee for 'Satluj'?
No, Diljit Dosanjh did not charge any fee for the film. Director Honey Trehan confirmed that the actor agreed to work without payment and remained supportive throughout the production.
What is the DSGMC's demand regarding 'Satluj'?
The DSGMC has urged all Gurdwara committee members to download and screen the film in their areas, and plans to organize seminars on Jaswant Singh Khalra in colleges to ensure the story reaches the public.
What is the film 'Satluj' about?
'Satluj' is a biographical portrayal of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a social activist who exposed extrajudicial killings and cremations of over 2,500 people in Punjab during the 1990s, allegedly involving Punjab Police.