Cinema VinesDuring the opening night of his Aura India Tour 2026 in New Delhi, singer‑actor Diljit Dosanjh took to the stage to address the controversy that has surrounded his biographical drama Satluj. The Punjabi star, who plays human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, spoke about the long journey the film has taken to reach audiences and reaffirmed his support for the people of Punjab. His remarks came as the film’s release saga continues to spark debate over its depiction of a sensitive period in the state’s history.
In a candid address to the concert crowd, Diljit said, “I love all of you because I am an artist, bro. I am being quiet, so let me stay quiet. I support all of you. But don't teach Punjabis how to fight.” He then explained that the film, which has been the subject of ridicule on stage, was a project he and the team had fought for over a long period. “The film you are making fun of on stage, Jaswant Singh Khalra's film we fought for that film for a long time. I love all of you. If someone hates us, it's okay. But I love all of you,” he added.
Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj chronicles Khalra’s investigation into the alleged secret cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies in Punjab during the early 1990s. Khalra was abducted in September 1995 and killed, with his body reportedly disposed of in the Sutlej River. The film’s title has changed several times—initially Ghallughara, then Punjab ’95—before settling on Satluj.
The project faced significant certification hurdles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The board first demanded 21 cuts and a title change. After the filmmakers challenged the decision, the requested edits reportedly ballooned to 127. The makers refused to release a heavily edited version, which pushed back planned theatrical release dates. In July 2026, the film was unexpectedly released on ZEE5 under the title Satluj, only to be removed from the platform in India within 48 hours following directives from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Diljit’s comments at the Delhi concert have reignited public interest in the film’s tumultuous journey and the broader debate over how Punjab’s turbulent 1990s era is portrayed on screen. The singer’s defense of the project underscores his commitment to telling Khalra’s story, while also addressing the criticism that has followed the film’s release and distribution challenges.
