Just two days after its release, Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj' has been removed from ZEE5 in India. The film, originally titled Punjab 95, had started streaming on July 3 after years of delays and controversy.
ZEE5 confirmed the development through a statement on Instagram. The platform thanked viewers for the strong response the film received and expressed gratitude to everyone who watched and supported it.
The streaming service also said it continues to stand behind the film and its creators. It described Satluj as a story with an important creative vision and said it remains committed to supporting meaningful storytelling.
"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 official statement said.
"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 platform reaffirmed its support for the Diljit’s long-awaited film.
However, ZEE5 announced that the film will remain unavailable in India until further notice. The platform said, "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. Our commitment to creators and to stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering.”
The film's journey to release has been far from smooth. Initially titled Punjab 95, it was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022 but remained stuck in the certification process for nearly three years.
The makers had earlier claimed that the CBFC suggested 127 cuts. The film was also expected to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, but the screening did not take place after reported objections from Indian authorities.
The film was finally released on ZEE5 under the title Satluj. It stars Diljit Dosanjh, Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.
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