The film Satluj, featuring Diljit Dosanjh, will soon be screened at gurudwaras in several states due to its unavailability on streaming platforms in India. Sikh religious institutions are taking the initiative to present this biographical drama, which focuses on the important narrative of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The move aims to ensure that audiences can access this significant story.

According to reports, the screenings will take place at gurudwaras located in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Jammu. The decision follows the film’s removal from the ZEE5 platform just 48 hours after its premiere, reportedly upon a directive from the Centre due to security concerns. This prompted gurudwara committees to facilitate community screenings.

In Jammu, four gurudwaras will host screenings from July 10 to July 13. An announcement circulating online has also invited the public to attend a session scheduled for July 11 at the Baba Fateh Singh Auditorium in Chandi Ki Taksal Gurudwara, Jaipur.

Support from Sikh Leadership for Screenings

Harmeet Singh Kalka, president of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), has expressed his backing for the community screening initiative. He highlighted concerns regarding the film’s removal from ZEE5, reiterating the demand for its restoration on the platform. Kalka asserts that it’s essential for the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra to reach the public.

An insider from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) commented on the screenings, stating that the community is determined to ensure the story is not lost simply because it is not available online. “If people cannot watch it on OTT, gurudwaras are opening their doors. Jaswant Singh Khalra’s story deserves to be seen,” the source added.

The screenings reflect a collective effort by Sikh religious organisations to maintain public access to significant narratives important to their community, particularly when these are unavailable through traditional streaming methods.

Background and Controversy Surrounding Satluj

Satluj premiered on ZEE5 on July 3, following a lengthy certification process that lasted nearly four years. Originally titled Ghallughara, the film faced multiple challenges in obtaining approval from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), requiring numerous edits. Initially, it was cleared with 21 cuts before undergoing further scrutiny, which led to additional suggested changes, including a new title and alterations to character names.

Eventually, the film was released in an uncut format on July 3, only to be taken down within two days. This swift removal provoked criticism from the SGPC and various political parties from Punjab, highlighting concerns over the implications of censorship in artistic expression. Following its removal, actor Diljit Dosanjh indicated that such a move was anticipated due to the film’s subject matter.

The film’s abrupt removal and the reactions from various quarters underscore the sensitive nature of its content and the lasting significance of Jaswant Singh Khalra’s legacy. Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj also features performances by Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, contributing to its overall narrative and impact.

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