Are People Trying to Silence Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Punjab 95’?
Indian cinema was set abuzz with anticipation when Diljit Dosanjh’s new movie Punjab 95 was going to premiere at the illustrious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
Yet, recent developments have cast a shadow of uncertainty over this highly anticipated event.
A new report now discloses that Punjab 95 has been mysteriously withdrawn from the festival’s esteemed lineup.
The official website fails to list the movie’s name or any mention of Diljit Dosanjh himself.
This is a stark difference from July 2023 when the creators of the movie announced that it would be a part of the festival.
However, there is a narrative unfolding that there are various ‘political forces at play’ that may have contributed to the film’s removal.
At its core, Punjab 95 unfolds the courageous journey of Khalra, who fearlessly confronted alleged wrongful confrontations orchestrated by Punjab’s police during times of unrest.
The limelight falls squarely on Diljit Dosanjh, portraying a lead role that promises a riveting performance.
Accompanying him, the impactful presence of Arjun Rampal and Suvinder Pal Vicky adds depth to the film’s intricate plot.
Due to Canada harbouring the world’s second-largest Sikh population, the narrative of the film would have resonated with the country.
The movie was once named “Ghallughara”, a term evoking the tragic Sikh massacres of 1746, 1762, and 1984.
Then it was transformed into Punjab 95, a title resonating with unique significance.
On July 24, 2023, Diljit Dosanjh unveiled the first glimpse of the project on Instagram.
His words echoed with reverence:
“Waheguruji ka Khalsa Waheguruji ki Fateh (Sikh saying)! World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
“Presenting the first look of Punjab 95, a compelling story based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra Ji.”
Its removal from the Toronto International Film Festival has led many to believe that mainstream media want to silence the movie’s message.
After all, with such a prestige platform seemingly abandoning the movie, especially given Canada’s Punjabi population, the film could be removed from other festivals.
However, given Diljit’s status and reputation, there’s no doubt he will fight this.