The final verdict on Punjab '95 now rests with the CBFC and higher authorities
How Much Did Diljit Dosanjh Charged to Play Jaswant Singh Khalra? Here's What Punjab '95 Director Said
How Much Did Diljit Dosanjh Charged to Play Jaswant Singh Khalra? Latest News: Diljit Dosanjh Fees for Punjab 95 Film: As Punjab '95, the long-awaited biopic of slain human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, continues to face hurdles in securing a theatrical release, the film’s director Honey Trehan has opened up about a widely speculated question — how much did leading actor Diljit Dosanjh charge for the role?
In an interview with journalist Sucharita Tyagi, Trehan revealed that Diljit never demanded a fee for portraying Khalra. “We have paid him because of the contract,” Trehan said, “but he never asked for any money.”
Recalling his conversation with the Punjabi superstar, Trehan shared Diljit's emotional response: “Paaji, paagha wali gall ae (this is a matter of honour). If in life you ever get an opportunity to play someone like this, we are indebted to people like him for what he did for the community.”
Trehan further quoted Diljit saying, “To get the chance to play someone like Jaswant Singh Khalra and then think about money — that would be a disgrace.”
The film, which was initially titled Ghallughara, has been stuck in limbo due to objections from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Despite being renamed to Punjab '95, the board has reportedly demanded over 120 cuts. Both Trehan and Dosanjh have refused to comply, citing that such modifications would dilute the truth of Khalra’s legacy.
Jaswant Singh Khalra, a prominent human rights defender, exposed mass disappearances and illegal cremations during the insurgency years in Punjab. His work eventually cost him his life — he was abducted and killed in 1995.
Punjab '95 aims to spotlight his courage and contribution, but its delay has sparked growing public criticism. Supporters argue that the censorship of the film is an attempt to bury an inconvenient chapter of history.
While the battle over the film’s release continues, one thing remains clear: Diljit Dosanjh’s dedication to this role transcended financial gain — a gesture that has only deepened his respect among fans and filmmakers alike.
The final verdict on Punjab '95 now rests with the CBFC and higher authorities — and whether they will allow Khalra’s truth to reach the silver screen, unaltered.
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