The biographical drama film 'Satluj,' starring actor Diljit Dosanjh, officially launched digitally on the Zee5 streaming platform on July 3, 2026.
This release came after a prolonged legal struggle against censorship hurdles.
About the Film
Directed and written by Honey Trehan, the social drama is inspired by the real-life sacrifices of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.
Khalra investigated thousands of unexplained disappearances during a period of intense militancy and political violence in Punjab.
The film, previously titled 'Punjab 95,' was produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures.
It features a supporting cast that includes Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.
Director's Insights
Director Honey Trehan shared insights regarding the profound emotional impact the film had on Jaswant Singh's surviving family members after hosting a private screening for them.
"When Mrs. Paramjit Kaur watched the film, she told me everything was exactly as they had read in the script but said she would speak to me later," Trehan said.
"The following day, she called and told me that after watching the film, she hadn't been able to eat for more than 36 hours.
She said the day Jaswant Singh was abducted was the last time they had seen him, and everything that happened afterwards had only existed in their minds."
Trehan noted that adapting historical events carries an immense emotional weight, especially when depicting real experiences for the people directly connected to those traumatic memories.
"Watching the film allowed them to witness those moments for the first time.
Yet, she also said something I will never forget: 'We take pride in belonging to the family of a martyr.
We don't even shed our tears.'
It was one of the most humbling conversations I've ever had because it reminded me that behind every chapter of history are families who continue to live with its memories," Trehan added.
The filmmaker emphasized that the primary intention of the creative team was to honor the strength of the human spirit by presenting an uncompromising and sensitive account of Khalra's relentless pursuit of justice.
"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," Trehan said.
"Everyone associated with the film deeply believed in the importance of this narrative, as it draws inspiration from the life of the great martyr Jaswant Singh.
I am delighted that it is now reaching audiences on Zee5."
Diljit Dosanjh's Perspective
Lead actor Diljit Dosanjh, who portrays the human rights activist, explained that the historical significance of Khalra's humanitarian contributions was the central reason he chose to commit to the project.
"When I first heard the script, it moved me deeply, as it is rooted in the lived experiences, struggles, and sacrifices of real people," Dosanjh said.
Dosanjh stated that he felt a severe sense of professional responsibility while approaching the character, viewing the role as one of the most profound milestones in his acting career.
"As an artiste, opportunities to be part of such meaningful stories are rare.
From the moment I heard the script, I felt a strong sense of responsibility towards the film and was committed to portraying such an inspiring character with truth, honesty, and utmost respect," Dosanjh added.
"Our film, 'Satluj,' is a story of conviction, courage, and humanity, and portraying this character has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career.
I'm grateful that audiences across the world can finally watch the film on Zee5 and connect with a story that is both deeply personal and truly a must-watch for all."
