Diljit Dosanjh has shared a powerful new poster for his upcoming film Punjab 95, showcasing a stark transformation as he takes on the role of the late human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The image, depicting Dosanjh with bound hands and a piercing gaze, offers a chilling glimpse into the film’s intense narrative.
Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala’s RSVP Movies, Punjab 95 tells the story of Khalra, who courageously exposed illegal killings in Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s. The project, however, has encountered multiple challenges, including demands from the censor board for nearly 120 cuts, underlining the sensitivity surrounding its political themes.
Initially slated to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, the film was unexpectedly withdrawn just before its screening, further complicating its release plans. Trehan has described the film as a “haunting portrayal of the cost of speaking truth to power” and expressed his willingness to remove his name from the project if forced to accept unreasonable censorship. Reports also indicated that despite the story’s setting, the censor board requested the removal of ‘Punjab’ from the title.
Despite these obstacles, Dosanjh has continued to support the film, using his platform to highlight its themes of justice and systemic violence while Punjab 95 awaits final certification. Meanwhile, the actor remains busy with his upcoming projects, including Border 2 with Varun Dhawan and Ahaan Shetty. He was last seen in Sardaar Ji 3, which sparked discussions due to the casting of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir.
The release of the new poster has reignited interest in Punjab 95, reminding audiences of the powerful true story it seeks to portray—one of courage, resistance, and the price of seeking justice.
By Sulagna Kar
