6 july 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has reacted strongly to the removal of his film Satluj from streaming platforms in India, saying he had anticipated the move and describing the film’s release strategy as a “guerrilla release.” During an Instagram Live session, Diljit remarked, “Lo kar lo block” (“Go ahead and block it”), suggesting that the film had already reached its intended audience before it was taken down.
The film, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, had a limited digital release after facing years of certification hurdles. According to Diljit, the team expected the film to be blocked, which is why they focused on ensuring it reached viewers quickly. He claimed many people had already downloaded or watched the movie before its removal, calling the strategy a successful “guerrilla release.”
Film Faced Years of Certification Challenges
Originally titled Punjab 95, the film remained entangled in certification issues for nearly three years before being released under the new title Satluj. The makers had earlier alleged that the certification process involved extensive suggested cuts, prompting prolonged delays before the film eventually premiered digitally.
Diljit Says the Story Has Already Reached the People
During the live interaction, Diljit maintained that removing the film from an OTT platform would not erase its impact. He expressed satisfaction that audiences had already watched the film and that discussions about Jaswant Singh Khalra’s life and work had begun across Punjab and beyond.
The actor also suggested that the conversation generated by the controversy had helped introduce younger audiences to Khalra’s legacy, arguing that the film’s message would continue to spread despite restrictions.
Support from Public Figures
The controversy has drawn reactions from several public figures. Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh praised the film and encouraged people to watch it, saying stories based on truth deserve to be seen. Political and religious organisations in Punjab have also voiced support for the film, adding to the debate surrounding its removal.
Debate Over Censorship Continues
The removal of Satluj has reignited discussions about censorship, artistic freedom, and the portrayal of sensitive historical events in Indian cinema. Supporters of the film argue that such stories are important for public discourse, while the controversy has once again highlighted the challenges filmmakers can face when dealing with politically and historically sensitive subjects.
Despite the setback, Diljit Dosanjh remains firm that the film has achieved its primary objective—bringing the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra to a wider audience. His remarks suggest that, in his view, the film’s reach extends beyond any single streaming platform.