Satluj Film Controversy: Diljit Dosanjh Says His Team Fought Hard for the Jaswant Singh Khalra Story

Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has finally addressed the controversy and online trolling surrounding his film Satluj. Speaking during the opening day of his 'Aura India Tour 2026' in New Delhi, the actor responded to criticism of the film, which is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.
 

Addressing the audience during the concert, Dosanjh expressed his affection for everyone and urged people not to underestimate the struggles and sacrifices of Punjabis. He also explained why he had remained silent amid the ongoing criticism.
 

"I love all of you because I am an artist, bro. I am silent, so let me remain silent. I support all of you. But don't teach Punjabis how to fight," he told the audience.
 

Referring directly to the film, Dosanjh said that people making fun of the project should understand the efforts that had gone into bringing the story to the screen.
 

"The film you are making fun of on stage, the Jaswant Singh Khalra film — we fought for a long time for this film. I love all of you. Even if someone hates us, it is okay. But I love all of you," he said.
 

What Is the Satluj Film Controversy?
 

The film Satluj, featuring Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role, premiered on ZEE5 on July 3 this year. However, it was removed from the streaming platform within two days of its release.
 

The film is based on the life and work of Punjab-based human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who brought attention to alleged illegal killings and secret cremations in Punjab during the late 1980s and early 1990s, a period marked by militancy and counter-insurgency operations.
 

Khalra himself went missing in 1995. His body was later recovered near the Harike Bridge on the Sutlej River. He was allegedly abducted, tortured and killed at the behest of then Punjab Police officials.
 

Diljit Dosanjh Begins Aura India Tour 2026
 

Meanwhile, Dosanjh launched his 'Aura India Tour 2026' with a sold-out concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the national capital.
 

The tour is co-produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment division of BookMyShow, and Live Nation. Following the international success of his 'Aura' tour, Dosanjh is set to perform before audiences across India.
 

His remarks on the Satluj controversy have brought renewed attention to the film and the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, which remains at the centre of the ongoing discussion.