'I challenge the darkness' ~ Jaswant Singh
I finally watched the filmSatujl (originally titled Punjab '95), a film I had been eagerly awaiting ever since I shared Honey Trehan's interview in August 2025 in the Caravan magazine. and wrote about how the government had kept it from release for more than three years. I had shared the colum, and preview to many friends last year. It was finally released on July 3, only to be blocked again just two days later—a story almost as remarkable as the film itself.
This is a deeply moving true story of an ordinary man, Jaswant Singh Khalra, who evolves into an investigator, whistleblower, and fearless human rights activist. His journey—from a quiet bank employee to someone willing to risk everything in pursuit of truth—is both inspiring and heartbreaking.
The performances are outstanding, led by Diljit Dosanjh, with excellent supporting performances throughout. Honey Trehan deserves special recognition for his perseverance in bringing this important story to the screen despite years of obstacles.
The struggle behind Punjab '95(previous name of the film Satluj) is itself remarkable. The film reportedly faced 127 requested cuts from the Indian censor board and remained unreleased for years. After finally reaching audiences on July 3, it was reportedly withdrawn again within two days. Whatever one's political views, Trehan's determination to bring this story to the screen reflects the courage required to tell difficult and controversial truths.
This is not just a film about Punjab in the 1990s. It is about courage, conscience, and the price of speaking truth to power. In an era when truth is often pressured into silence, Satujl is an important reminder of why the work of investigators, whistleblowers, and human rights activists matters. It is a film well worth watching.
