Shashi Ranjan reacts to Satluj's OTT removal, says banning film does more harm than good
Mumbai, July 12
Filmmaker and actor Shashi Ranjan has shared his thoughts on the film 'Satluj' and its removal from the OTT platform.
Praising the film's storytelling and emotional depth, he described it as one of the finest films he has watched in recent years. In an exclusive interview with IANS, he highlighted its impactful narrative and powerful performances. Reacting to the film's OTT removal, Shashi Ranjan expressed his opinion against banning films based on historical subjects, stating that such restrictions often create more curiosity among audiences.
He added that presenting history through cinema does not mislead today's educated youth and hoped that the film would soon return to a digital platform.
Shashi Ranjan stated, "After a long time, I watched a film that left me with a threefold reaction. Firstly, I became extremely emotional after watching the film. Secondly, the story and the way it has been made completely took me by surprise. After so many years, I came across a film with such a beautiful narrative and such powerful emotions. Among all the films that have released in the past several years, this is one of the finest films I have seen."
"I believe that banning any kind of film does not serve any purpose; instead, it causes more harm. When a film is banned, it creates curiosity among people about why it was prohibited. I do not believe that showing history to today's youth will lead them in the wrong direction. I strongly disagree with that notion. There have been many films that have highlighted the darker chapters of history. I do not think educated young audiences today will be distracted after watching such a film. I feel it is unfortunate that the film has been removed from OTT platforms, and I hope it returns soon," added Shashi Ranjan.
Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj' (formerly titled Punjab '95) was taken down from the ZEE5 streaming platform in India within 48 hours of its release. The sudden removal came amid concerns raised by government authorities over the film's portrayal of alleged police excesses during the 1990s in Punjab.
"Satluj" was leaked online just hours after it was removed from the ZEE5 streaming platform.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I disagree with Ranjan ji here. The film apparently shows police in a bad light during a sensitive period. Our security forces sacrificed so much to bring peace to Punjab in the 90s. This kind of one-sided narrative can be harmful even if the film is well-made. There are better ways to discuss history without vilifying institutions. Let the experts review and then decide. 🙏
Honestly, I'm tired of this cycle. Film gets made, OTT picks it up, then some committee finds it objectionable, and poof, it's gone. Meanwhile, the leaked versions circulate freely. If the government is so worried about narratives, why not have a proper censor board that works transparently? Banning is lazy governance. Just my opinion. 🤷♂️
As someone living abroad but following Indian news, it's sad to see this. Diljit Dosanjh is a global star now, and his films get international attention. Banning only puts India in a bad light internationally. We're supposed to be a democracy with freedom of expression. If the film is factually wrong, let the filmmakers put a disclaimer. Simple. ✌️
Satluj was taken down because it allegedly shows police atrocities that never happened. My family is from Punjab and they lived through those dark days. Yes, there was militancy, but the police also helped restore order. If the film shows only one side, it's not fair to those who served. Maybe a disclaimer or a balanced documentary approach would be better. Just saying. 🕊️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.