Punjabi superstar and global music icon Diljit Dosanjh has defended his latest film, which has stirred controversy for not being released in India. The film, based on sensitive themes tied to Sikh history and political turmoil, has reportedly been withheld from Indian theatrical release due to concerns over censorship and potential backlash. Given India’s strict film censorship laws and the sensitivities surrounding historical and religious issues, producers reportedly chose to release the film internationally instead.

In a recent interview, Dosanjh emphasized the importance of telling authentic stories, even if they challenge mainstream narratives or face institutional hurdles. “This story needs to be told,” he said. “Even if it can’t be shown in India, it will reach the people it’s meant for.” While Dosanjh did not directly name Indian authorities or the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), insiders suggest the film faced regulatory challenges due to its depiction of controversial events from Punjab’s past, including references to Operation Blue Star and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

The decision sparked widespread debate on social media, with fans and critics split over the move. While some expressed disappointment over not being able to view the film in Indian cinemas, others praised Dosanjh’s courage in supporting a project that delves into painful but important chapters of history. Dosanjh, known for balancing mainstream success with projects rooted in cultural identity, reiterated that the film is a tribute to the resilience of the Sikh community.

“We’ve tried to stay true to history, not to provoke but to honour those stories,” he said. “Cinema is a powerful tool; sometimes it takes one bold step to start a conversation.” The controversy has reignited discussions around artistic freedom in India, with filmmakers and actors increasingly navigating complex regulations and sociopolitical pressures. While many commercial films easily pass censorship, movies that address real-world events, particularly those with political or religious implications, often face delays, edits, or outright bans.

Despite its absence from Indian theaters, the film is set for release in North America, the UK, and Australia, regions with significant Punjabi diaspora populations. Fans around the world have already begun expressing their support online, with hashtags praising Dosanjh for standing by his convictions. As anticipation builds internationally, the film’s reception abroad may set the stage for broader conversations on artistic expression, historical memory, and the boundaries of censorship in Indian cinema.