Diljit Dosanjh's Jaswant Singh Khalra Biopic Punjab '95 Suggested 120 CBFC Cuts; Title Change
CBFC instructed significant changes, including renaming the film Sutlej.
Diljit Dosanjh Jaswant Singh Khalra Biopic Punjab 95 CBFC Obstacle in Release: Diljit Dosanjh’s much-anticipated biopic, Punjab '95, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, remains under scrutiny by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film has reportedly been subjected to further modifications, with the board now demanding 120 cuts, up from the initial 85, before it can be cleared for release. (Punjab 95 controversy)
Reports indicate that CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi and the Revising Committee have instructed significant changes, including renaming the film Sutlej, symbolizing the river that unites Punjab. Additionally, the character of Jaswant Singh Khalra is expected to undergo a name change, a move that has met resistance from the film's makers.
A source shared, "The filmmakers argued that removing Khalra’s name would not only be disrespectful to his legacy but also diminish the film’s significance as a biopic." The CBFC also raised concerns that the film, if linked to real-life incidents, could influence public sentiment.
The board has also called for the removal of certain scenes, including Gurbani and references to Punjab, Tarn Taran, and even international mentions like Canada and the UK. If the filmmakers agree to these changes, the certification process could be finalized soon.
The controversy surrounding Punjab '95 has been ongoing since its initial screening in 2022, with the filmmakers continuously negotiating the cuts requested by the CBFC.
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