Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming film ‘Punjab 95’ is encountering significant challenges as India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has issued multiple demands for censorship. Initially, the board requested the removal of 85 scenes; however, following a review by the revision committee, this number has escalated to 120 cuts.
One of the most contentious requests is to change the name of the main character, Jaswant Singh Khalra. The board has suggested renaming him “Sutlej,” after one of Punjab’s rivers. This proposal has met with strong opposition from the film’s producers, who argue that Khalra is a revered figure in the Sikh community, and altering his name disrespects his legacy.
Additionally, the CBFC has proposed changing the film’s title ‘Punjab 95,’ which signifies the year Jaswant Singh Khalra disappeared. The board has also demanded the removal of a scene that references Gurbani, a sacred text in Sikhism. Furthermore, any mentions of Punjab and the district of Tarn Taran have been deemed inappropriate, along with references to Canada and the UK.
The producers have labeled these demands as unnecessary and unjust, asserting that the film is based on true events and testimonies. They argue that altering the narrative would compromise the film’s authenticity.
Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala in collaboration with MacGuffin Pictures, ‘Punjab 95’ features notable performances from Arjun Rampal and Surinder Vicky in key roles. The film’s future now hinges on the resolution of these censorship demands.
