Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh charged a token fee of just Rs 1 to portray human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra in Satluj, director Honey Trehan has revealed. The filmmaker shared that Diljit was so deeply moved by Khalra’s life and legacy that he refused to accept his usual remuneration for the film.
Honey Trehan revealed Diljit Dosanjh’s fee for Satluj
Speaking about casting the actor, Trehan said Diljit was always his first choice to play Khalra. He believed only someone who understood Punjab’s culture and emotions could authentically portray the activist’s journey. According to the director, Diljit immediately connected with the story after reading the script and the extensive research behind the project.
Recalling their first meeting over the film, Trehan said Diljit stood up from his chair, placed the script on his forehead as a mark of respect, and expressed his willingness to be part of the project. The actor reportedly told the director that charging money to portray someone like Jaswant Singh Khalra would be “shameful,” insisting on accepting only Rs 1 to fulfil contractual formalities.
The filmmaker added that Diljit’s conviction never wavered despite the challenges the film encountered. Satluj, which chronicles the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been at the centre of controversy ever since its release. The film initially faced a prolonged certification dispute before eventually premiering on ZEE5. However, it was removed from the streaming platform within 48 hours, further intensifying the debate surrounding the project.
On Diljit Dosanjh’s dedication for Satluj
Trehan has repeatedly maintained that the film was made with the intention of telling an important story and not to create division. Responding to criticism, he recently said audiences across Punjab, including both Hindus and Sikhs, have been watching the film peacefully, dismissing allegations that it promotes propaganda.
The director also credited Diljit for standing firmly by the project throughout its long journey, describing him as an actor with a “clear conscience.” He said the film may never have been made without Diljit’s support and commitment to bringing Khalra’s story to the screen.
While Satluj continues to generate conversations over censorship and creative freedom, Trehan’s revelation about Diljit’s symbolic Rs 1 fee has drawn widespread appreciation online, with many praising the actor for putting the story ahead of commercial considerations.
