Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj Removed From Zee5 Days After Release; OTT Platform Says It ‘Stands Firmly’ by the Film
Diljit Dosanjh and director Honey Trehan’s Satluj has been taken down from Zee5 in India just days after its long-awaited release on the streaming platform. The film, which had received widespread praise from critics and audiences, is now unavailable for streaming in the country.
Zee5 confirmed the development through an official statement on Sunday, saying the film had been put on hold in India “until further notice” because of “current developments.”
Zee5 Says It Continues to Support the Film
Thanking viewers for their response to the film, Zee5 said, “The response to Satluj since its release has been truly overwhelming. We are deeply grateful to every viewer who chose to subscribe, watch and champion the film. Your love and support have meant a great deal to us and to everyone who brought this story to life.”
The platform also reaffirmed its support for the project and its makers.
“At Zee5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it. We believe powerful storytelling has the ability to inspire, endure and leave a lasting impact. We remain committed to championing authentic and meaningful narratives,”the statement read.
Without elaborating on the reasons behind the film’s removal, Zee5 added, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity.”
The statement concluded by reiterating the platform’s commitment to creators and stories driven by artistic integrity and purpose.
Diljit Dosanjh Had Expressed Concerns Before the Film Was Removed
Interestingly, Diljit Dosanjh had hinted that the film could be taken down while interacting with fans during an Instagram Live session after its release.
Responding to a fan who asked whether he feared the film might be removed, the actor admitted that he did. He also said he was surprised the film had reached OTT at all.
“Today is Saturday. I feel it could be taken down by Monday. But no worries, you download it,” he told viewers.
Aslo Read:The Release Of The Long-Battled Film “Satluj”: Story Of Jaswant Singh Khalra
Following the film’s release, Diljit also shared an emotional note reflecting on the project’s long journey.
“Mai Aksar Team Nu Pushda Rehnda C Ke Eh Film Kadey v Ni Augi? Asi Apni Kahani Nhi Das Sakde? Khalra Saab Di Avaaz Nu 1995 ch v Dabaa Dita Geya.. Te Aj V Ona Di Avaaz Nu Dabaa Rahe Aa.. Asi Kithey Khadey An? Kang Bhaji Always Mainu Kehnde c Samaa Badluga film Ek Din Zarur Release Hougi. SHUKAR SHUKAR BAS SHUKAR.”
Translated, the actor said he often asked the team whether the film would ever be released and questioned whether they would ever be able to tell their own story. He added that Jaswant Singh Khalra’s voice was silenced in 1995 and continues to be suppressed today. Diljit also recalled being encouraged by Kang, who had assured him that the film would eventually be released.
About Satluj
Originally titled Punjab ’95, Satluj took more than three years to reach audiences. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had asked the makers to implement 125 cuts for a theatrical release, but the team chose not to proceed with those changes.
The film was eventually released uncut on Zee5 on July 3 before being taken down on July 5.
Satluj is based on the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who uncovered allegations of police atrocities, including the alleged killing and illegal cremation of around 25,000 people.