Diljit Dosanjh’s much-awaited film Satluj has been officially removed from ZEE5 in India just two days after its release. The streaming platform confirmed that the film will remain unavailable “until further notice” due to current developments, while assuring audiences that it stands by the film’s creative vision.
ZEE5’s Official Statement
ZEE5 acknowledged the “truly overwhelming” response Satluj received from viewers since its July 3, 2026 premiere. In its statement, the platform expressed gratitude to subscribers who championed the film and reiterated its support for the filmmakers. ZEE5 emphasized that it remains committed to “authentic and meaningful narratives” and promised to explore “every appropriate avenue through due process” to restore the film for Indian audiences.
Reasons Behind Removal
While ZEE5 did not disclose specific reasons, the decision comes amid “current developments” surrounding the film. Satluj, previously titled Punjab 95, is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The film had already faced years of delays due to censorship disputes with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which demanded multiple cuts before granting clearance. The removal has reignited debates about censorship and creative freedom in Indian cinema.
Audience and Political Reactions
Fans expressed disappointment on social media, reporting that the film stopped midway or became unavailable shortly after release. Political voices also weighed in, with Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal criticizing the removal as “arbitrary censorship” and stressing that Satluj sheds light on Punjab’s painful history. The incident has sparked wider discussions about the suppression of sensitive narratives in mainstream platforms.
ZEE5’s Commitment Going Forward
Despite the controversy, ZEE5 has assured that it stands firmly by Satluj and its artistic integrity. The platform reiterated its dedication to powerful storytelling that inspires and endures, promising to work through due process to bring the film back to Indian audiences. However, as of now, there is no confirmed timeline for its return.
Broader Implications
The removal of Satluj highlights the ongoing tension between creative expression and regulatory oversight in India’s entertainment industry. For Diljit Dosanjh, the film was a bold project tackling sensitive historical themes, and its sudden unavailability underscores the challenges faced by filmmakers addressing politically charged subjects. The controversy has amplified calls for greater transparency in censorship decisions and reinforced the importance of platforms supporting artistic freedom.
