Satluj Boosts Zee5 Overseas Downloads By 374%
Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj sparks controversy, gets removed from ZEE5, but sees massive overseas downloads

The Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, which was released on ZEE5 on July 3, 2026, has been at the center of controversy after it was removed from the platform. Despite the removal, the film has reportedly seen a significant increase in downloads of the ZEE5 app in overseas markets, with a whopping 374% rise in monthly downloads.
According to a source, while the exact official figures are not available, the increase in interest and traffic on ZEE5 after the release of Satluj was notable. The source added that the film's portrayal of truth has resonated with audiences overseas, leading to the massive surge in downloads.
The film's removal from ZEE5 has sparked a debate about freedom of speech, with many questioning the decision. Veteran actor Kanwaljit Singh, who plays a pivotal role in the film, expressed his disappointment and confusion over the removal, stating that it has only generated more interest in the film. Singh also mentioned that the producers plan to take the matter to court.
The controversy surrounding Satluj began when the I&B Ministry alleged that the film was released without completing the certification process and violated IT rules. The ministry's statement has been met with criticism from many, including MP and RTI activist Saket Gokhale, who has written to the Centre questioning the removal of the film from ZEE5.
The removal of Satluj from ZEE5 has also raised questions about the platform's policies and the impact of censorship on creative freedom. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what the consequences will be for the film's producers and the platform.
In the meantime, the massive increase in overseas downloads of the ZEE5 app is a testament to the film's popularity and the interest it has generated among audiences worldwide. The situation is being closely watched, and any further developments are likely to be widely reported.
The film's success overseas has also highlighted the importance of online platforms in reaching global audiences and the need for clarity on censorship policies to ensure that creative freedom is protected. As the controversy surrounding Satluj continues, it is likely to have a significant impact on the way films are released and consumed on online platforms in the future.
The producers of Satluj have not yet commented on the increase in downloads, but the film's success overseas is likely to be seen as a positive development for the Indian film industry, which has been expanding its global reach in recent years. The situation is complex, and the outcome is uncertain, but one thing is clear - the controversy surrounding Satluj has generated a lot of interest and attention, both in India and overseas.
The next steps in this saga are likely to be closely watched, and any developments will be widely reported. The question on everyone's mind is - what happens next? Will the film be reinstated on ZEE5, or will the producers take the matter to court? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain - the controversy surrounding Satluj has sparked an important debate about freedom of speech and censorship in the Indian film industry.