Tarsem Jassar's Dastaar still awaits CBFC clearance just days before film's release on July 17
Tarsem Jassar's Dastaar is yet to receive CBFC clearance just days before its July 17 worldwide release. The delay has sparked fresh debate over the certification process for Punjabi films based on Sikh history and Punjab's heritage.
Punjabi film Dastaar, starring Tarsem Jassar and Yograj Singh, is set for a worldwide theatrical release on July 17. However, with only a few days left, the film has still not received its censor certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The movie was screened by the board in Delhi on July 8, but the certification process remains incomplete.
Normally, after a film is reviewed, the CBFC uploads the certification details and any suggested changes to its website within a day or two. In the case of Dastaar, no such update has appeared. Despite repeated follow-ups by the filmmakers, they have not received any official response, leaving the release schedule uncertain.
Fresh Debate Over Punjabi and Sikh-Themed FilmsThe delay has once again sparked discussions within the Punjabi film industry. Many filmmakers and cinema lovers believe that movies based on Punjab's history, Sikh heritage, and regional identity often face longer certification processes compared to other films.
This is not the first time such concerns have been raised. Earlier, the Punjabi film Chardi Kala also experienced delays before receiving its censor approval. These repeated incidents have led many to question whether films exploring Punjab's historical and cultural themes are examined more closely during the certification process.
Recent Cases Add to the DiscussionThe issue has become more noticeable after the journey of Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj. Inspired by the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, the film reportedly remained stuck in the certification process for nearly four years before finally releasing on the streaming platform Zee5 earlier this month. However, it was removed from Indian platforms within 48 hours due to sovereignty-related concerns and was later taken down from international platforms as well.
With Dastaar now facing uncertainty just before its release, the conversation about the certification challenges for Punjabi films has grown stronger.
What is Dastaar all about?Directed by Amar Hundal, Dastaar promises a moving story centred on Sikh identity, bravery, and the strong spirit of Punjab. The recently released trailer highlights themes of sacrifice, resilience, and standing up against injustice, suggesting that the film aims to deliver both emotional depth and an inspiring message.
Along with Tarsem Jassar and Yograj Singh, the cast includes Geet Goraya, Sarbjit Cheema, Aman Dhaliwal, Neeta Mohindra, Ashish Duggal, Kyle Rowe, Jason Lambert, Aman Sutdhar, Japtej Singh, Deepak Kamboj, Manjot Singh, Vikramjit Singh Khehra, Teddy Jay, Oliver Briscombe, Joseph Birmingham, and Paul White in important roles.