Punjabi cinema faces another setback as ‘Chal Mera Putt 4’ yet to get clearance for India release
Film's India release is reportedly delayed due to the presence of Pakistani actors in the cast
PTC Web Desk: Punjabi cinema has suffered another blow as the highly anticipated fourth sequel of the blockbuster film 'Chal Mera Putt' has not yet received a clearance certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India. Featuring celebrated Punjabi singer and actor Amrinder Gill in the lead role, the film's India release is reportedly delayed due to the presence of Pakistani actors in the cast.
Despite the producers announcing August 1 as the official release date, the film may only see overseas screenings if CBFC clearance is not granted in time. The delay echoes a similar situation earlier this year, when 'Sardaar Ji 3', starring Diljit Dosanjh, was denied release in India because of the involvement of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The 'Chal Mera Putt' series, known for its emotional portrayal of the lives of Punjabi immigrants, features popular Pakistani comedians such as Iftikhar Thakur, Akram Udas, and Nasir Chinyoti. However, political tensions between India and Pakistan—intensified after the Pahalgam terror attack in May 2025—have fueled objections to Pakistani participation in Indian cinema.
Iftikhar Thakur’s controversial remarks in the aftermath of the attack further inflamed the situation. He was quoted saying, "If you come through the air, we will drop bombs; through the sea, you’ll drown; and through the land, you’ll be buried." The statement was widely condemned for hurting national sentiments.
Additionally, Thakur criticised the Indian Punjabi film industry, claiming he had signed nearly 16 films which were later cancelled due to boycott threats. “They said they’ll boycott us. I said, you don’t even have the voice to boycott us; we’re the ones who do the boycotting,” he reportedly said. He further asserted that Pakistani talent contributes significantly to Punjabi cinema, estimating investments of Rs 300 to Rs 350 crore on Pakistani actors across multiple projects.
Punjabi actor and comedian Binnu Dhillon publicly denounced Thakur's remarks and announced he would no longer work with Pakistani artists. Dhillon added that Thakur would not be welcomed in Punjab and insisted that those who speak against the country should not be allowed to perform in India.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also weighed in on the matter. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he stated that Pakistani artists themselves admit to dire conditions in their country, recounting how some even joked about trading cities like Lahore and Karachi in exchange for food.
Meanwhile, Sardaar Ji 3 became the first film to be denied a CBFC certificate this year over such concerns. Now, 'Chal Mera Putt 4' finds itself in similar jeopardy. With just nine days remaining until its scheduled release, no official statement has been issued by the CBFC or the Indian government regarding the delay. However, it is understood that concerns over national sentiment and possible public backlash may have prompted the delay.
Even if the film eventually receives clearance, controversy appears inevitable. Granting a certificate to 'Chal Mera Putt 4', despite featuring multiple Pakistani artists, including Iftikhar Thakur, could reignite debates within the Indian film industry—especially after 'Sardaar Ji 3' was blocked for the involvement of just one Pakistani actor.