'Punjab 95': Diljit Dosanjh Delights Fans with First Look; Set to Premiere at TIFF 2023

'Punjab 95': Renowned Punjabi actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh is eagerly awaiting the world premiere of his upcoming film, 'Punjab 95,' at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2023. Helmed by the talented director Honey Trehan, this much-anticipated biographical drama sheds light on the life and legacy of the valiant human rights activist, Jaswant Singh Khalra.

As anticipation mounts, the makers of "Punjab 95" treated fans to an exciting glimpse of the film by unveiling its first-look poster across various social media platforms on 25th July. The captivating poster, coupled with Diljit Dosanjh's intriguing caption on Instagram, has only added to the excitement surrounding the movie. Dosanjh wrote, "Waheguruji ka Khalsa, Waheguruji ki Fateh! World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Presenting the first look of Punjab ‘95, a compelling story based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra Ji."

There have been difficulties along the way in providing this significant story to the big screen. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was previously challenged by the film's creators in the Bombay High Court for unheard-of six months of censorship certificate delays. The CBFC had also mandated 21 cuts, which made it even harder for the filmmakers to maintain the integrity of their work.

In "Punjab 95," Diljit Dosanjh will be accompanied by acclaimed actors Arjun Rampal and Suvinder Vicky, who will play pivotal roles in this powerful cinematic journey. Originally titled "Ghallughara," the film promises to be a poignant exploration of Jaswant Singh Khalra's life, whose contributions as a human rights activist had far-reaching consequences.

Who was Jaswant Singh Khalra?

Jaswant Singh Khalra was a man of courage and conviction, instrumental in uncovering damning evidence of abduction, murder, and cremation of thousands of unidentified persons by the police. During the militancy period, which lasted from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s, his determined inquiry revealed a shocking 25,000 illegal cremations in Punjab, which sparked rage and protests across the world.

As a result of Khalra's unwavering efforts, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) confirmed that the Punjab police had unlawfully cremated 2,097 people in the Tarn Taran district. However, his brave stance came at a great cost. In 1995, Jaswant Singh Khalra mysteriously disappeared, and initially, the Punjab Police claimed it was a case of suicide. However, in 2005, justice was partially served when six Punjab police officials were convicted and sentenced to seven years of imprisonment for Khalra's abduction and murder.

Jaswant Singh Khalra's life story deserves being viewed on film, and the upcoming film "Punjab 95" promises to be an impressive and very emotional portrayal of his courageous life. The world premiere of the movie at TIFF 2023 is anticipated to be a momentous occasion for Dosanjh, the entire cast, and crew, but most importantly for viewers everywhere who will have the chance to see this gripping account of a fearless activist who fought for truth and justice until his last breath.

- PTC PUNJABI