'I challenge the darkness': Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj removed from Zee5, actor reacts

In an official statement, ZEE5 said, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice.”

“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 added.

“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,” it further said.

The platform also stated that it is “exploring every appropriate avenue through due process” to bring the film back to audiences at the earliest opportunity.

After years of delay, the film was finally released on the platform on June 3. Its release had previously been stalled due to a censorship dispute after it was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022.

Originally titled Punjab 95, the film was also scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) but was withdrawn following concerns raised by Indian authorities.

It was eventually released this year under the new title Satluj.

The film features Diljit Dosanjh, Kanwaljeet Singh, Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles.

In his first remark, Diljit said: "I challenge the darkness."