The new Punjabi film Chardikala has sparked renewed debate surrounding the cinematic portrayal of Sikh shaheeds (martyrs). Opinion remains divided: while one section supports these films as a vital medium for narrating history to younger generations, another strongly opposes them. This opposition cites an Adesh (directive) issued by the Akal Takht Sahib, which strictly prohibits the dramatic depiction of the Sikh Gurus, their families, the Sahibzadey, the Gurus’ companion Gursikhs, and Sikh martyrs.

Highlighting this stance, the SGPC-appointed acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, recently rejected a Bollywood filmmaker’s proposal to produce a movie about the Sikh general Hari Singh Nalwa. However, some argue that this prohibition should not extend to recent historical events and modern-day shaheeds.

To explore this complex issue, journalist Mandeep Singh sat down with Pardeep Singh Eyali, a representative of the Jatha Sikh Youth Power of Punjab. As an organization actively campaigning against the portrayal of Sikh martyrs in film, this interview seeks to provide an in-depth understanding of their viewpoint.