EXCLUSIVE: Satluj Actor Calls For Fearless Cinema As Diljit Dosanjh Starrer Gets Removed From OTT; Jagjeet Sandhu Says, “People Deserve To Know Their History”

The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Satluj continues to spark debate over censorship, artistic freedom, and the future of fearless storytelling in Indian cinema. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Bubble, Jagjeet Sandhu, who plays SPO Kuljit Singh, a character based on eyewitness SPO Kuldeep Singh Bachra, shared his candid views on the removal of Satluj from ZEE5, freedom of expression, and the impact of censorship on artists. The actor strongly advocated for independent artistic expression. Sandhu argued that cinema should remain free from political interference while preserving historical truths. Scroll down to read what he said.

Jagjeet Sandhu On Satluj Controversy, OTT Removal, CBFC Censorship

What are your thoughts on the current debate and the reactions from various sections of the industry and public?

“I am a strong believer in freedom of expression & speech through art. And I think if we remove the politics from this film controversy & think of it as a human being. Everyone is going to connect & understand.”

How do you see the Satluj controversy impacting the creative industry, especially in terms of artistic expression and freedom of speech?

“I believe art should be beyond any barriers. In fact, if such a film is released without any restrictions, globally it gives such a strong message about the strength of democracy of that particular nation. However, if a ban is imposed like this, chances of true & bold stories coming forward become minuscule. Fake narratives come forward & the soul of art starts to fade.”

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A post shared by Jagjeet Sandhu (@ijagjeetsandhu)

Do you think such controversies could have a chilling effect on artists and filmmakers in Punjabi and Hindi cinema? Why or why not?

“Oh, 100%. Creative & financial loss is at stake in such a situation. I believe the major impact is that, be it the actor or producer, their confidence shakes. The result of that is that other filmmakers start to drift away from such subjects ( subjects which are so rooted & historical)”

What is your opinion on the role of social media in fueling or resolving such controversies?

“Social media’s role is pivotal. Especially in this case, Satluj is in every household of Punjab. And even internationally due to social media coming forward.”

In your view, what should be the approach of artists and filmmakers when faced with sensitive topics or controversies like Satluj?

“Personally, as an artist, I believe art is for everyone & it should be free from any propaganda. If the story is showing facts & truth, there should not be any reason not to carry forward with the project. I strongly believe people have the right to know their history irrespective of the association sensitivity with it.”

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A post shared by Jagjeet Sandhu (@ijagjeetsandhu)

Do you believe that the current censorship policies are affecting the kind of stories filmmakers want to tell? How can this be balanced with societal sensitivities?

“I believe the censor board should be an independent body. It should take independent decisions without any interference/ pressure. As they say, your vibe attracts your tribe. I believe every individual film grabs its own audience. It’s not like one particular film is related to the entire society. The censor’s job is to certify the film. It’s the audience’s job next. The banned films are the most watched as per the psychology of humans. Society is well aware of deciding on their choices.”

In your opinion, how can the industry ensure a healthy balance between creative expression and social responsibility?

“I personally feel the approach should be equal for cinema of all languages. There’s a strong need to hire new staff so the process is faster. The delay in getting the censor should be avoided. Internationally, we usually get all the needed certification in 4-5 days. However, in our nation, we have to keep a margin of almost a month.”

Have you ever faced any restrictions or challenges related to censorship or creative expression in your projects?

“I think a fearless cinema is my dream. To be able to say our thing in the best way possible without any restrictions. I think a free-minded approach would help in making our society more tolerant and accepting. It’s very important for people to see how many different perspectives art can bring to a particular situation. Cinema has the power to change.”

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A post shared by Jagjeet Sandhu (@ijagjeetsandhu)

About Satluj Controversy

Satluj was titled Punjab 95. It premiered on ZEE5 on July 3 after remaining unreleased for nearly four years. The film was removed from the platform in India on July 5. As reported by PTI, the Centre cited “security concerns”. There were obligations under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

The controversy traces back to 2022. The makers submitted the film to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) under its original title, Punjab 95. The certification process stalled after the filmmakers refused to implement 127 cuts reportedly suggested by the board. A government official told PTI that the producers had released the film directly on OTT under a new title without addressing the pending certification issues.

About The Film

Jaswant Singh Khalra’s life has inspired the film, Satluj. Honey Trehan has directed the film. He was a bank clerk who became one of Punjab’s most prominent human rights activists. He began investigating the alleged illegal cremation of around 25,000 unidentified bodies between 1984 and 1994. The film follows Khalra’s efforts to uncover the truth. It was before his abduction from Amritsar home. The abduction took place on September 6, 1995. In 2005, four Punjab Police personnel were convicted of his abduction and murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Satluj stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role, alongside Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Jagjeet Sandhu, among others.

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Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.