**CBFC Demands 120 Cuts and Changes for Diljit Dosanjh’s Film ‘Punjab ’95’**
The upcoming biopic ‘Punjab ’95,’ centered on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, is entangled in a heated dispute with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, the film has been subjected to multiple rounds of censorship. The latest round of demands from the CBFC has escalated concerns over freedom of expression and the accurate portrayal of historical events. Initially, the CBFC requested 85 cuts in the film. However, after a review by the Revising Committee, the number of alterations has surged to nearly 120.
One of the most contentious demands raised by the CBFC is the proposal to rename the protagonist, currently depicted as Jaswant Singh Khalra, to ‘Sutlej,’ referencing the river that connects Punjab. The filmmakers have staunchly opposed this alteration, citing Khalra’s revered status in the Sikh community. They argue that changing his name would disrespect his legacy and dilute the authenticity and impact of the film, which highlights Khalra’s investigation into the disappearances and killings of Sikh youths during the Punjab insurgency.
In addition to the name change, the CBFC has also requested a revision of the film’s title to exclude the reference to ‘Punjab ’95,’ the year of Khalra’s disappearance. The board expressed concerns that the title could provoke strong emotions and influence public sentiment. Furthermore, the CBFC demanded the removal of a Gurbani scene, a sacred text in Sikhism, and instructed the elimination of any mentions of Punjab and the Tarn Taran district. References to Canada and the UK were labeled inappropriate and required elimination.
The makers of ‘Punjab ’95’ have been engaged in discussions with the CBFC to address these demands. They emphasized that the film is based on real-life events and testimonies, and the censorship requests are excessive, undermining the film’s integrity. Producers Ronnie Screwvala and Honey Trehan have voiced frustration with the ongoing censorship process, stressing the importance of narrating Jaswant Singh Khalra’s story and shedding light on human rights violations during the Punjab insurgency.
The narrative of ‘Punjab ’95’ unfolds in the turbulent 1990s in Amritsar, revolving around Jaswant Singh Khalra, an ordinary bank employee and human rights activist leading a peaceful life with his family. His quest for tranquility is disrupted upon discovering the disappearance of his friend’s mother, Bibi Gurpej. As Khalra delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a perilous web of secrets, endangering himself and his loved ones.
Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala in association with MacGuffin Pictures, ‘Punjab ’95’ also features Arjun Rampal and Surinder Vicky in significant roles.
**Tags: Arjun Rampal, CBFC, Censor Board, Diljit Dosanjh, Honey Trehan, Jaswant Singh Khalra, Punjab ’95, Ronnie Screwvala, Surinder Vicky**
For the latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies updates, Box office collections, Entertainment News, and Upcoming Movies in 2024, visit [MyAxom Reviews](https://www.myaxom.com/). Stay tuned for the most recent Hindi movie updates!