After facing years of delays and certification hurdles, Diljit Dosanjh’s much-awaited film ‘Satluj’, previously titled ‘Panjab 95’, has finally premiered directly on ZEE5. The streaming platform officially announced the release on July 3, 2026.
Directed by Honey Trehan, the film tells the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, whose work exposed mass disappearances and extra-judicial killings in Punjab during the militancy period.
‘Satluj’ Finally Arrives on ZEE5
Following a prolonged struggle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Satluj has skipped a theatrical release and debuted directly on ZEE5.
The film, originally titled ‘Panjab 95’, had remained unreleased for several years before its digital premiere was confirmed by the streaming service.
Story Based on Jaswant Singh Khalra
Helmed by Honey Trehan, the film follows the journey of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a former bank manager who uncovered cases of mass disappearances and extra-judicial killings in Punjab during the militancy era.
The cast also includes Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles.
ZEE5 Calls the Film a Story of Courage and Justice
Speaking about the digital release, Kaveri Das, Business Head, Hindi ZEE5, said:
“This is a film about courage, resilience, and the fight for justice and it deserves a platform that will stand behind it with conviction. We are proud to bring Satluj to Zee 5, not just because it is powerful cinema, but because it represents the kind of impactful, culturally resonant storytelling we are committed to backing”.
Director Honey Trehan on the Film’s Release
Expressing his happiness over the streaming debut, director Honey Trehan said:
“From the very beginning, our intention was to tell this story with honesty, sensitivity, and without compromise. After a long wait, audiences will finally witness our labour of love and hard work. Satluj is not just the story of one individual; it is a tribute to the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity.”
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Diljit Dosanjh Explains Why He Joined the Project
Sharing what drew him to the film, Diljit Dosanjh stated:
“Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra ji’s martyrdom and his contribution to humanity were the primary reasons I chose to be a part of this film. When I first heard the script, it moved me deeply, as it is rooted in the lived experiences, struggles, and sacrifices of real people. As an artist, opportunities to be part of such meaningful stories are rare.”
Film Faced Years of Delays and CBFC Hurdles
Produced by Ronnie Screwvala’s RSVP Movies, the film was originally selected to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2023.
However, Indian authorities intervened, leading the filmmakers to withdraw the film from the festival.
Following that, Satluj encountered a prolonged certification process with the CBFC, which reportedly demanded 127 cuts before clearance.
The film was later scheduled for a theatrical release on February 7 last year, but that plan was also postponed, extending its delay until the eventual streaming release.
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Conclusion
After a lengthy journey marked by certification issues and multiple postponements, ‘Satluj’ has finally reached audiences through ZEE5. The film not only highlights the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra but also marks the long-awaited release of one of Diljit Dosanjh’s most discussed projects.
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