The removal of Diljit Dosanjh’s film Satluj from ZEE5 just two days after its release has continued to spark reactions across the film industry. The latest filmmaker to comment on the controversy is writer-director Anurag Basu, who expressed his concern through a social media post.
The film, which premiered on ZEE5 in India on July 3, was taken down from the streaming platform on July 5. While ZEE5 confirmed the removal, it did not disclose the specific reason behind the decision.
Anurag Basu Draws Comparison With Jafar Panahi
Taking to X, Anurag Basu compared the situation of Satluj director Honey Trehan with acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi.
He wrote:
“#Satluj I never thought a day would come when Honey Trehan would face what Jafar Panahi faced in Iran.“
The post quickly gained attention online, with many users discussing Basu’s comparison and the broader debate surrounding the film’s removal.
Why Did Basu Mention Jafar Panahi?
Jafar Panahi is one of Iran’s most celebrated filmmakers and has faced legal action in his country over what authorities described as “propaganda activities.”
According to AFP, Panahi was sentenced to one year in prison. He also received a two-year travel ban and was prohibited from joining political or social groups.
By referencing Panahi, Basu appeared to suggest that filmmakers should not face obstacles while bringing important stories to audiences.
ZEE5’s Official Statement
Following the removal of Satluj, ZEE5 issued a statement thanking viewers for their support.
“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 platform said.
The streaming service also reaffirmed its support for the film and its creators.
“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 statement read.
ZEE5 further confirmed that the film will remain unavailable in India until further notice.
The platform added that it is exploring every appropriate legal avenue to bring the film back to Indian audiences as soon as possible.
A Long Journey Before Release
Satluj has had a difficult release journey.
Originally titled Punjab 95, the film was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022. However, it remained in the certification process for nearly three years.
Director Honey Trehan had earlier claimed that the CBFC suggested 127 cuts to the film.
The movie was also scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2023. However, the screening was cancelled after objections were reportedly raised by Indian authorities.
Eventually, the film was released on ZEE5 under the title Satluj before being removed from the platform two days later.
About Satluj
Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj is inspired by the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist known for exposing alleged illegal disappearances and secret cremations during Punjab’s militancy era.
The film stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role alongside Kanwaljeet Singh, Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.
The controversy surrounding the film has generated widespread debate, with several public figures and members of the film industry expressing their views following its removal.