Satluj X review: Diljit's film tears heart apart; stunned viewers call it hidden gem

Diljit Dosanjh's Satluj has left viewers emotional, with many calling the film a "hidden gem" on X. Despite its removal from ZEE5, the film continues to receive praise for its storytelling and performances.

In Short

• Viewers praised the film's storytelling, emotional depth and measured performances across cast
• Social media users described Diljit Dosanjh's role as honest and deeply affecting
• Arjun Rampal also drew appreciation as reactions spread quickly on X

Actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Satluj has found strong support from viewers despite being taken down from ZEE5 just two days after its release. The film, which finally premiered in its original, uncut form after years of delays, received praise on social media for its storytelling, emotional depth and performances. Many users called it one of Diljit's finest works.

Soon after Satluj began streaming on ZEE5 on July 3, it became a major talking point on X, where viewers shared positive reactions to the film. Many praised its narrative and emotional impact, while several applauded the performances of Diljit Dosanjh and Arjun Rampal.

One social media user wrote, "Listening to these unheard stories since i was a kid. It tears my heart apart seeing the visuals in actual. SATLUJ is nothing but a movie uncovering pain that punjab suffered years ago. Nicely written, greatly portrayed! Full of emotions, True events (sic)!"

One user wrote, "Satluj dekhne ke baad ek baat clear hai, Diljit ne apne role mein bahut honesty dikhayi hai. Film ka emotional connect strong hai (sic)."

Another posted, "Satluj bina kisi hype ke aa gayi, aur wahi iski biggest surprise hai. Don't miss this hidden gem. #SatlujOnZee5 (sic)."

A third user wrote, "If you haven't yet, just go and watch #SatlujonZee5. This movie is just mind boggling. Diljit Dosanjh delivers what could be one of the strongest performance not to forget (sic)."

Another viewer shared, "I wanted to cry watching #SatlujOnZee5. I am still not over this film and I don't want to be. Undoubtedly one of the finest this year (sic)."

About Satluj

Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj, earlier titled Punjab '95, is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated the alleged cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies in Punjab between 1984 and 1994.

The film was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022 but did not receive a clearance certificate. The makers had earlier alleged that the CBFC had sought 127 cuts. It was also scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, but the screening was cancelled after objections were reportedly raised by Indian authorities.

After years of delays, Satluj was finally released on ZEE5 on July 3 without any promotional campaign. However, it was removed from the platform on July 5 without prior notice. ZEE5 later said it continued to stand by the film and its creative vision but added that, "in light of current developments," the film would remain unavailable in India until further notice.

Apart from Diljit Dosanjh and Arjun Rampal, Satluj also features Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles.

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