Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Satluj’ Removed From Zee5 After Two-Day Run

The streaming platform pulled the film from its India library just 48 hours after its digital premiere, leaving viewers and fans seeking answers.

The highly anticipated biographical drama Satluj, starring global music and film icon Diljit Dosanjh, was removed from the Zee5 streaming platform in India on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The film, which premiered on the service on July 3, was taken down following reports of technical issues and viewer complaints that the movie had stopped midway during playback.

The sudden withdrawal comes after a years-long struggle with India's film certification process. Originally titled Punjab 95, the film is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated disappearances and secret cremations in Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s.

Zee5 Issues Statement on ‘Satluj’ Removal

In a public statement released via its social media channels on July 5, Zee5 confirmed that Satluj would be "unavailable in India until further notice." The platform cited "current developments" as the reason for the withdrawal but did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the interference or technical disruptions.

Despite the removal, the platform reaffirmed its support for the project. "At Zee5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it," the company stated. "We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity."

Film Background and Production Context

Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj has faced significant hurdles since its inception. The film underwent a lengthy censorship battle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which included demands for substantial cuts and a name change from its original title, Punjab 95.

The film skipped a traditional theatrical release in India, ultimately debuting directly on OTT. Following its release, the film garnered significant attention, with many viewers praising Dosanjh’s portrayal of the activist. However, the joy of the release was short-lived as users reported that the film abruptly stopped playing, leading to widespread confusion and frustration on social media platforms.

Official Sources

The information regarding the removal of the film was provided in an official statement by Zee5. Background regarding the film’s certification history and subject matter aligns with reports from industry outlets covering the film's production journey.

Quote Section

According to officials at Zee5, "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."

Why It Matters

The removal of Satluj highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding creative expression and digital content distribution in India. For subscribers, the incident raises concerns about the reliability of streaming platforms for long-awaited content. For the broader film industry, the withdrawal of a high-profile title shortly after release underscores the delicate balance between platform distribution, regulatory compliance, and consumer expectations.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Rapid Withdrawal: Satluj was removed from Zee5 just two days after its long-delayed release on July 3, 2026.

• Subject Matter: The film is a biographical drama centered on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.

• Official Stance: Zee5 has stated it is exploring "due process" to restore the film and continues to support the creative vision of the filmmakers.

• Viewer Experience: Many fans reported that the film stopped playing midway through their viewing sessions before the platform officially removed the title.

FAQ

1. Is Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj currently available to watch?

No, as of July 5, 2026, the film is unavailable on Zee5 in India until further notice.

2. Why was the film removed?

Zee5 cited "current developments" but did not specify the exact reason. The removal followed reports of technical errors and playback issues.

3. Will the film return to the streaming platform?

Zee5 has expressed its intention to explore "appropriate avenues" to restore the film to its library as soon as possible.

4. Where can I watch Satluj?

Currently, the film is not officially available for streaming on the Zee5 platform in India.

Source: Zee5