New Delhi. Diljit Dosanjh’s film “Sutlej” may be among this year’s most controversial films. First, there was controversy surrounding the film’s release, then news of the Censor Board allegedly demanding over 100 cuts surfaced, raising numerous questions about the film. The film was unexpectedly released on OTT platforms, but was removed from the platform after just 48 hours. Meanwhile, news of its online leak further compounded the makers’ difficulties.
“Sutlej” was originally scheduled to be released as “Punjab 95.” The film’s story revolves around events that took place in Punjab in the 1990s and the sensitive issues of that era. The film attempts to highlight aspects that have long been the subject of political and social debate.
Claims of Demand for Over 100 Cuts
The biggest controversy surrounding the film involved the Censor Board. According to reports, over 100 cuts were demanded. However, the makers reportedly refused to accept these changes and opted to release the film without any cuts.
The controversy surrounding the film deepened further. After its surprise release on OTT platforms, it was removed from the platform within just 48 hours. Later, reports emerged that the film had been leaked online, resulting in financial losses for the producers.
Films have been made on Punjab’s insurgency before
This is not the first attempt to portray the sensitive period of Punjab in cinema. Gulzar’s 1996 film “Maachis” was also set against the backdrop of the 1980s insurgency in Punjab.
“Maachis” received positive reviews from audiences and critics. The film also won several National Awards. Interestingly, Jimmy Shergill was also a part of this film.
What did Jimmy Shergill say about the “Sutlej” controversy?
Recently, Jimmy Shergill shared his opinion on the ongoing controversy surrounding “Sutlej.” When asked by a news agency why “Matchstick,” based on a sensitive period in Punjab, was well-received by audiences, he linked it to politics.
Jimmy Shergill stated that politics exists and will always exist. According to him, when a sensitive issue is discussed, many aspects of it that were previously hidden become apparent.
He explained that once a discussion begins on one aspect of a sensitive topic, people’s attention also shifts to other aspects, and this is where the political aspect of the issue comes to the fore.
Jimmy is also in the news for “Operation Safed Sagar”
Jimmy Shergill is also in the news these days for his new Netflix series, “Operation Safed Sagar.” The show is set against the backdrop of the 1999 Kargil War and depicts the role and bravery of the Indian Air Force.
While Jimmy Shergill is in the news for his new project, his past experiences related to ‘Matchstick’ and his comments on ‘Sutlej’ have reignited the debate about portraying the sensitive history of Punjab in cinema.