Punjabi cinema

This article is about the Punjabi language film industry in India. For the Punjabi film industry in Pakistan, see Lollywood.

For other uses of "Pollywood", see Pollywood.

Punjabi cinema

No. of screens| 500+[1]
Main distributors| Omjee Group
Studio 7 Production
Rhythm Boyz
Villagers Film Studio
PTC Motion Pictures
White Hill Studios[2]
Produced feature films (2022)[3]
Total| 1000+ Films (Theatrical)
Gross box office
Total| 1200 Cr+
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Punjabi cinema,[4][5] also known as Pollywood[6] or Punjwood,[7][8] is cinema dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the Punjabi-language widely spoken in the Indian state of Punjab. It is based in Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Mohali.[7][8]

The cinema of Punjab has its beginnings with the 1928 production of Daughters of Today, the earliest feature film produced in the region in Lahore. The first sound film, Heer Ranjha, using the sound-on-disc technology, was released in 1932. Since then, many films have been produced in Punjabi cinema, a number of which have received international recognition. Many actors and filmmakers started their careers in Punjabi films, a number of whom have acquired international reputations, and a number of whom have found greater financial benefits in careers in larger film producing industries.[citation needed]

## History

[edit]

Punjabi cinema

List of Punjabi films
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1970 1971 1972 1973 1974
1975 1976 1977 1978 1979
1980s
1980 1981 1982 1983 1984
1985 1986 1987 1988 1989
1990s
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
2000s
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
2010s
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
2020s
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

* v
* t
* e

Film operations started in the 1920s in Lahore, the provincial capital of British Punjab. The first silent film, Daughters of Today, was released in 1924 in Lahore; the city had nine operational cinema houses.[9] Movies shown at these cinemas were mostly produced in Bombay and Calcutta, and seldom from Hollywood and London.[9]

Daughters of Today was a brainchild of G.K. Mehta, a former officer with the North-Western Railways who, much like H. S. Bhatavdekar, had imported a camera into the country. Mehta continued to produce newsreel coverage for companies abroad and delved into further film projects but his dedication gave way when he promptly left the film industry for more profitable ventures.[9] But it was to be later in 1929–1930, when Abdur Rashid Kardar's Husn Ka Daku[10] was released, that the film industry had established in essence in Lahore's Bhati Gate locality. Kardar, a professional calligraphist, was accompanied by his fellow-artist and friend Muhammad Ismail, who would make the posters for his films.

### Sound films (1930s–1946)

[edit]

Although Kardar had worked with G.K. Mehta on The Daughters of Today, he felt he needed to continue working and stay active in the industry. Alongside Ismail, he sold all his belongings to set up a studio and a production company under the name United Players Corporation, in 1928.[9] Set up at Ravi Road (now Timber Market), the duo hired actors to work with them on their projects. Shooting was mainly done in daylight and limited their productivity, but the area they encompassed was enriched with locations, including important landmarks.[9]

The duo modeled their work on American and English films with influences not just prevalent in actors' attires but the movie titles and expressed a desire to seek all means necessary to make a sound film of their own. Actors who worked for the studio included Hiralal, Gul Hamid, Nazir, Pran Sikhand, Kaushalya Devi, Gulzaar, Mumtaaz and Ahmed Deen. Husn Ka Daku, also known as Mysterious Eagle, Kardar's directorial début would firmly add him into the directors guild.[9] Produced by Hakim Ram Prasad, the 1932 released Heer Ranjha, originally titled Hoor Punjab, was the first Punjabi sound film ever made.[11] Hakim provided the studio with the equipment necessary to direct the sound film, marked as the last directed by Kardar in Lahore, starring M. Ismail while launching the careers of Rafiq Ghaznavi, Nazeer and Anwari.

The façade of Bhati Gate

Produced by Indira Movie Tone, Krishna Dev Mehra released his directorial début, Pind Di Kudi, in 1935.[12] The sound film, Pind Di Kudi was produced in Calcutta and released in Lahore and introduced young Noor Jahan as an actor and a playback singer. Due to the success of this film, interest in Punjabi films started to escalate;[13] therefore, in 1938, with the assistance of Madan Mohan Mehra, K.D. Mehra released his second Punjabi sound film, Heer Sial.

Studios started to open and many actors, filmmakers and technicians shifted from Bombay and Calcutta to Lahore. Prominent names included Shanta Apte, Motilal, Chandra Mohan, Hiralal, Noor Jehan, Mumtaz Shanti, Wali, Syed Attahullah Shah Hashmi, Krishna Kumar, and Shanker Hussain. Baldev Raj Chopra, later known as a director, started from the Punjabi film industry in Lahore, where he operated a film magazine called the Cine Herald. Likewise, Ramanand Sagar, later a director, was associated with the Evening News and Syed Attahullah Shah Hashmi worked for the film newspaper, Adakar.

Bhati Gate is known to have produced some of most notable actors, writers and artists,[14] but with tensions running swift towards the independence of Pakistan and India in 1947, most of the actors traveled into areas that are now a part of modern India. The industry left in Lahore would later be termed as Lollywood, a portmanteau of Lahore and Hollywood.

### Post–Punjab partition

[edit]

Main article: Partition of India § Punjab

In 1947, the British province of Punjab was partitioned between India and Pakistan. West Punjab became part of Pakistan and East Punjab became part of India. This compelled Punjabi film actors, filmmakers and musicians to work in the Bombay industry, including actors such as K.L. Saigal, Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar and Dev Anand and singers such as Mohammed Rafi, Noorjahan and Shamshad Begum.[15] In 1948, Roop K. Shorey directed the first Punjabi film following the partition of Punjab. Other notable films of the late 1940s included Lachhi (1949), Mundri (1949) and Pheray (1949).

#### 1950s–1960s

[edit]

Attempts were made to keep Punjabi cinema alive in this period. Filmmakers made films like Posti, Do Lachhian and Bhangra with some success but were not able to revive Punjabi cinema. Songs from the films would run for months and years on the radio resulting in a long-term audience for the films.[16] Post-partition, the trend of comedies continued. One of the hit comedies was Mulkh Raj Bhakhri's Bhangra (1958), starring Sundar and Nishi. It was remade by director Mohan Bhakhri as Jatti in 1980 with Mehar Mittal and Aparna Chowdhry, and it was again a commercial success. The music from the film was by Hansraj Behl with lyrics by Verma Malik. Songs sung by Shamshad and Rafi like "Batti balkay banere utte rakhdi han, rah bhul na jave chann mera" and "Chitte dand hasnon nayion rehnde" were widespread hits. Johnny Walker (1957) was a hit.

The big-budget romantic Punjabi film by director Padam Prakash Maheshwary, Satluj De Kande, was released in 1964. This film starred Balraj Sahni, Nishi, Wasti, and Mirza Musharraf, with music by Hansraj Behl. This was the only Punjabi film starring Balraj Sahni. It was a major hit and earned a National Film Award. Satluj de Kande was telecasted three times on the public TV channel Doordarshan in India. In 1969 the religious film Nanak Nam Jahaz Hai starring Prithviraj Kapoor, I. S. Johar, Vimmi, Som Dutt, Nishi, Suresh, and David Abraham was released. The film was the first really major successful Punjabi film in post-independent India, with a major cultural impact on Punjabi Sikhs at home and abroad, and is credited with the revival of the Punjabi film industry in India. People stood in kilometre-long lines to buy a ticket for the film.

#### 1970s

[edit]

After the success of Nanak Nam Jahaz Hai, films were released in huge numbers. Hindi actors of Punjabi descent became interested in Punjabi films. Kankan De Ohle (Dharmendra, Asha Parekh and Ravindra Kapoor) and Nanak Dukhiya Sab Sansar (Dara Singh, Balraj Sahni, Ram Mohan and Asha Sachdev) were released in 1970. 1971 saw no major releases. In 1972, Dara Singh starred with Prithviraj Kapoor in Mele Mitran De. Man Jeete Jag Jeet, a religious film starring Sunil Dutt, Radha Saluja and Ranjeet, was a major release of 1973. In 1974, Do Sher (Dharmendra and Rajendra Kumar), Bhagat Dhanna Jatt (Dara Singh and Feroz Khan), Sacha Mera Roop Hai (Manmohan Krishan) and Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam (Shaminder Singh and Radha Saluja) were released. The most successful was Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam, due to the wide appeal of its religious historical setting and appearances by Bollywood actors including Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar, Dharmendra, Johnny Walker, Ranjeet and Dara Singh.[17]

Teri Meri Ik Jindri (1975) starred Dharmendra and introduced his cousin Veerendra. Many films were released in 1976: Daaj, Giddha, Main Papi Tum Bakhshanhaar, Papi Tarey Anek, Santo Banto, Sardar-E-Azam, Sawa Lakh Se Ek Ladaun, Taakra, and Yamla Jatt. Sawa Lakh Se Ek Ladaun was the biggest hit and starred Dara Singh in the main lead; Rajesh Khanna made a special appearance as the Qawal. The film ran into conflict with the Sikh political parties as the film had Fauj-i-Khas soldiers wearing fake beards. The year 1977 was not a major one for the Punjabi film industry. Jai Mata Di, Saal Solvan Chadya, Sat Sri Akal, and Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha were released, amongst others. Saal Solvan Chadya was a highlight because of the cameo appearance by Rekha. Sat Sri Akal was another hit film. It starred Sunil Dutt, Shatrughan Sinha, and Premnath. In 1978 Udeekan, Dhyani Bhagat, Jai Mata Sheranwali, and Jindri Yar Di were released. The drama Udeekan was a hit. Walayati Babu, the first ever remake in Punjabi cinema, was released in 1978. The film was remade from the Punjabi film of the same name by Johnny Walker; it featured a special appearance by Amitabh Bachchan and Mehar Mittal played the main lead. 1979 was a big year: Guru Manio Granth, Jatt Punjabi, Kunwara Mama, Sukhi Pariwar, and Til Til Dalekha were released. The religious film Guru Manio Granth was an instant hit. Jatt Punjabi had a big cast and a special appearance by Manoj Kumar. Til Til Da Lekha starred Rajesh Khanna as the main lead hero and Mehar Mittal played the comedian's role; the film became a golden jubilee hit at the box office. Til Til Dalekha was the second Punjabi movie of Rajesh Khanna and his first film as the lead hero in Punjabi films. It won the Punjab State Government award for best story writer and second best feature film of 1979. The first Punjabi mystery film, Vangaar (The Challenge), was released but it failed to become a hit.

#### 1980s

[edit]

Chann Pardesi, the first Punjabi film to win the national award, was released in 1980, and was the biggest hit of that year. It starred Raj Babbar, Rama Vij, Amrish Puri, Om Puri, and Kulbhushan Kharbanda. Fauji Chacha had veteran Bollywood actor Sanjeev Kumar in the lead. A remake of Mulkh Raj Bhakhri's 1958 film Bhangra came out in 1980 from director Mohan Bhakhri. The film was titled Jatti, and starred Sundar, Nishi, Mehar Mittal, and Aparna Chowdhry. As with the original, the remake was a tremendous success.[18]

1981 had only one hit: Balbiro Bhabhi. This film had Veerendra in the lead role. Two major releases of 1982 were Jatt Da Gandasa and Sarpanch. Sarpanch starred Veerendra. In 1983, many movies were released, with Putt Jattan De being the biggest commercially. Veerendra had another hit in 1984 with the film Yaari Jatt Di. This was the first Punjabi film to have more than half its footage shot in the United Kingdom. Mamla Garbar Hai was a hit for actor Gurdas Mann. The film's songs were especially loved.

Two hit films of 1985 were Mohammad Sadiq's Guddo and Veerendra's Vairi, Ucha Dar Babe Nanak Da was also in 1985, it is religious film that established Gurdas Mann as a star.. Long Da Lishkara was the big hit of 1986, starring Raj Babbar, Gurdas Mann, Om Puri, and Nina Deol. In 1987 Veerendra starred in Patola and Jor Jatt Da. Punjab was shaken with the assassination of Veerendra by gunshot during the filming of Jatt Tey Zameen. The death opened the door for supporting actors including Guggu Gill and Yograj Singh to take leading roles.

1988 had Patola as one of the major release. In 1989 came the critically acclaimed Marhi Da Deeva. The film starred Raj Babbar, Pankaj Kapur, Kanwaljit Singh, Parikshit Sahni, and Deepti Naval.

#### 1990s

[edit]

In 1990 Qurbani Jatt Di was released, starring Guggu Gill, Yograj Singh, Gurdas Mann, Dharmendra, Raj Babbar and Priti Sapru. The film was directed by Preeti Sapru herself, and did well at the box office. A second important release was Dushmani Di Agg, the last film of Veerendra. It also starred Gurdas Mann and Priti Sapru, and was successful at the box office. In 1991 the major film Anakh Jattan Di starred Daljeet Kaur and Guggu Gill. It was the first movie where the audience really accepted ex-villain Guggu Gill as a hero. The film was followed by films like Jor Jatt Da, which managed to recover its cost. Badla Jatti Da was the major success of the year. It starred Guggu Gill, Yograj Singh in a villain role, and Aman Noorie. Udeekan Saun Diyan garnered critical acclaim, but was not a commercial success. Sounh Menoo Punjab Di, starring Satish Kaul, Rama Vij, Mehar Mittal, and Pal Randhawa was also one of the releases of 1991. The film was directed by Sukhdev Ahluwalia, one of the most successful directors of Punjwood, and had music by Surinder Kohli.

Vaisakhi, starring Deep Dhillon and Sunita Dheer, was released in 1991 to critical acclaim, but did not succeed commercially. Jatt Jeona Morh was a major hit that year, and made Guggu Gill a superstar. Also released was Yograj Singh's Jagga Daku (1991 film), which did moderately well. Dil Da Mamla, starring Guggu Gill and Amar Noori, did poorly at the box office.

1993 had films like Jatt Sucha Singh Soorma (with Yograj Singh and Neena Sidhu), Mirza Sahiban (starring Guggu Gill), Lalkara Jatt Da, and Saali Adhi Gharwali. These films managed to do adequately at the box office, but were not major successes. Preeti Sapru's Mehndi Shagnan Di, starring Malkit Singh, Hansraj Hans, Preeti Sapru, and Yograj Singh, lost money. Kudi Canada Di starring Yograj Singh also did poorly.

Kachehri (1994) starred Gurdas Mann, Yograj Singh, and others. The film was praised by critics, was a commercial success, and won a national award. A second release was Tabahi, starring newcomer Vishal Singh; it was the blockbuster hit of the year. Guggu Gill's Vairi did quite well at the box office, but Jigra Jatt Da, with Yograj Singh as the villain, did poorly at the box office.

Kimi Verma starred in Naseebo and Qahar in 1995 to critical acclaim, but not commercial success. Naseebo managed to recover its costs. Pratigya, starring Guggu Gill, Gurdas Maan, Preeti Sapru, and Dara Singh, did well at the box office. Zaildaar (Yograj Singh), Nain Preeto De (Yograj Singh), and Sir Dhad Di Baazi did well. Gurdas Mann's Baghawat did not. Jakhmi Jagirdar and Mera Punjab amongst others also did poorly that year.

Punjabi cinema began to decline in 1996. Only the film Sukha (starring Vishal Singh) did well at the box office. Deson Pardeson, Dhee Jatt Di (Upasana Singh, Gurkirtan, and Shivinder Mahal), Vichoda (Yograj Singh), Gawahi Jatt Di, and Jorawar all did poorly at the box office. Dara Singh's Vindoo and Farha's Rabb Diyan Rakhan also fared poorly.

Films of 1997 (Mela, Truck Driver, Sardari, Preetan De Pehredaar, and Pachtaawa) all failed to make a profit. Even Guggu Gill's films were not successful. Train to Pakistan was filmed in a mixture of Hindi and Punjabi, and was later dubbed into Punjabi for film festivals.

In 1998, Purja Purja Kat Mare with Guggu Gill, Laali with Dara Singh, Ravinder Maan, and Vishal, and Dildaara with Kalbhooshan Kharbanda and Tanuja did not make money. Even big budget films like Guru Gobind Singh did poorly. The critically acclaimed film Main Maa Punjab Dee (directed by Balwant Dullat) won a National Award. The film Main Maa Punjab dee has been shown repeatedly on national television. The year ended on a positive note as Jaspal Bhatti's Mahaul Theek Hai became an instant hit of Punjabi cinema. It was the first big hit since Jatt Jeona Morh (1991) and Badla Jatti Da (1992).

Punjabi films were more successful in 1999. Mahaul Theek Hai, Shaheed-e-Mohabbat Boota Singh with Gurdas Maan and Divya Dutta was a critical and commercial success. Muqqadar, Tera Mera Pyar, Nadiyon Vichde Neer, Door Nahin Nankana, and Ishq Nachave Gali Gali (Randeep Virender, Manjeet Kullar, Deepak Saraf, Neeru Singh, and Surinder Sharma) all did poorly at the box office. Rajniti, which was also made in Hindi, failed to make money. Raj Babbar's Shaheed Udham Singh did well towards the end of the year. There were only two major hits that year, Shaheed e Mohabbat and Shaheed Udham Singh.

#### 2000s

[edit]

In 2000 there was just a single release: Dard Pardesan De, starring Avinash Wadhawan, Upasana Singh, Paramveer, and Deepshikha, which fared poorly in Punjab, but did very well overseas. Sikandra and Jagira were released in 2001. Avinash Wadhawan and Ayesha Jhulka starred in Khalsa Mero Roop Hai Khaas, which was released to the overseas market but not in Punjab.

In 2002 Jee Ayan Nu was released, featuring singer-turned-actor Harbhajan Mann and directed by Manmohan Singh. The movie was made on a big budget for Punjwood – 9 million, as compared to the more typical 20–25 million. It was very successful. This was a turning point in the revival of Punjabi cinema.

Badla came out in 2003. Asa Nu Maan Watna Da was released in 2004, again with actor Harbhajan Mann and director Manmohan Singh.

Jija Ji, Des Hoyaa Pardes, Main Tu Assi Tussi, Yaaran Naal Baharan, and Nalaik were released in 2005. Dil Apna Punjabi (again pairing Harbhajan and director Manmohan), Ek Jind Ek Jaan (introducing Prabhleen Sandhu), Mannat (directed and written by Gurbir Singh Grewal, having Jimmy Sheirgill and introducing Kulraj Randhawa), and Waris Shah: Ishq Daa Waaris came out in 2006. Kambdi Kalai, a Punjabi diaspora movie based out of the United States, came out in 2006. Rustam-e-Hind and Mitti Wajan Mardi (with Harbhajan and Manmohan) were released in 2007.

A significant number of movies were produced in 2008: Hashar: A Love Story (introducing Gurleen Chopra), Yaariyan, Mera Pind, Lakh pardesi hoye, Heaven on earth, and Sat sri akal. In 2009, Jag Jeodeye Deh Mele became a hit, and Tera Mera Ki Rishta with Jimmy Shergill and Kulraj Randhawa was a hit. But the biggest earner of all the Punjabi films was Manmohan Singh's Munde U.K. De with Jimmy Shergill and Gurpreet Ghuggi.

Munde U.K. De broke the record of Dil Apna Punjabi which was also directed by Manmohan Singh and became the biggest earner of all the Punjabi movies.

Mehndi Wale Hath (2006), written and directed by Harinder Gill and with the new-star cast of Goldie Somal, Gavie Chahal, and Prableen, was a hit film in east Punjab territory.

#### 2010s

[edit]

In 2010, 16 movies were released. Mel Karade Rabba starring Jimmy Shergill, Gippy Grewal later broke all records and grossed 110 million net, becoming the highest-grossing Punjabi film ever. Babbu Maan's Ekam – Son of Soil was released in April and was a smash hit. It brought British-punjabi actress Mandy Takhar to the industry. Jawani Zindabad, written and directed by Harinder Gill and starring the famous Punjabi singer Raj Barar, Pooja Kanwal, Guggu Gill, and Gurkirtan, was released in March 2010. It became a big hit in Canada. Channa Sachi Muchi, written and directed by Harinder Gill and starring Miss Pooja and Goldie Somal, was released in August 2010. Also released in 2010 was Sukhmani (Hope for Life), starring Gurdas Maan, Juhi Chawla & Divya Dutta.

See also: List of Punjabi films of 2011

In 2011, the film Ek Noor starring Harshdeep Kaur and Yami Gautam was released. Chhevan Dariya (The Sixth River), directed by Ish Amitoj Kaur, was released in September 2011. Kaur was the first Punjabi woman to have directed, produced, and written a Punjabi film. The film starred Gulshan Grover, Neena Gupta, Manpreet Singh, Lakhwinder Wadali, Christa Cannon and Rana Ranbir.

At the end of the year Chak Jawana was released, directed by Simerjit Singh and starring Gurdas Maan, Jonita Doda in the Lead Roles .

In February 2011, the PTC Punjabi channel organised the first ever PTC Punjabi Film Awards at Panchkula. It was a tremendous boost to the industry and was attended by the likes of Om Puri, Prem Chopra, Gurdas Maan, Guddu Dhanoa, Preeti Sapru, Raza Murad, Satish Kaul, Manmohan Singh, Amrinder Gill, Gippy Grewal, Jasbir Jassi, Puneet Issar, Rakesh Bedi, Rama Vij, Sudhanshu Pandey, and Akriti Kakkar.

2011 looks to be the year when the industry moves away from the "typical NRI-centered" storylines and towards more meaningful and creative storylines with movies like The Lion of Punjab starring Diljit Dosanjh and Dharti starring Rannvijay Singh.

Jihne Mera Dil Luteya is a 2011 Punjabi film directed by Mandeep Kumar with story and screenplay by Dheeraj Rattan, produced by Batra Showbiz Pvt. Ltd. and starring Gippy Grewal, Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Jaswinder Bhalla. It grossed 125 million. These films raise the bar of Punjabi films and take Punjabi cinema to next level.

In September 2011, Yaara o Dildaara was released, directed by Ksshitij Chaudhary and starring Harbhajan Mann, Jonita Doda, Tulip Joshi, Kabir Bedi, and Gurpreet Ghuggi. In October, Yaar Annmulle introducing Yuvraj Hans and Harish Verma was released. This film was a box office hit.

See also: List of Punjabi films of 2012

This year was the considered as the golden year of Punjabi cinema and industry reached many milestones in this year by having all India impact. There was the release of Hollywood-style film Mirza – The Untold Story the most costly film (₹90 million (US$1.0 million)) in the history of Punjabi cinema[19] in April starring Gippy Grewal and Yo Yo Honey Singh. In June the film Jatt & Juliet was greatest blockbuster and till now holds the title of best ever film of Punjabi cinema. This film established Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa as superstars of Punjabi film industry. Himesh Reshammiya has purchased the remake rights of the movie for ₹35 million (US$400,000). In July 2012 out and out comedy film Carry On Jatta starring Gippy Grewal was also blockbuster only after Jatt & Juliet commercially. First time in punjabi cinema sequel of sperhit film Yaaran Naal Baharan, film Yaraan Naal Baharaan 2 was released.

In September, Ajj De Ranjhe starring Deep Dhillon and Kul Sidhu was released. It was directed by Man ji. In October 2012, Saadi Wakhri Hai Shaan, directed by Gurbir Grewal, was released. The film featured eight songs, which were composed by debut music director Dilpreet Bhatia. The film's music was a contemporary fusion of western classical and Punjabi folk music.

This year many new Production houses started the production of too many comedy movies. Binnu Dhillon, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Jaswinder Bhalla, Rana Ranbir, Karamjit Anmol and B.N. Sharma established themselves as greatest comedians of Punjabi industry.

In August 2012, the first ever Punjabi International Film Academy Awards were organised in Toronto, Canada. This was a tremendous success, attended by a host of Punjabi stars. With renewed interest from the public, Punjabi cinema has seen a revival with more releases every year featuring bigger budgets, homegrown stars, and Bollywood actors of Punjabi descent taking part. Also there are film festivals like Punjabi Film Festival, Amritsar, Ma Boli International Punjabi Film Festival, Vancouver and Punjabi International Film Festival, Toronto held annually.

See also: List of Punjabi films of 2013

2013 carried the Golden phase of Punjabi movies to the next level. Superstars Gippy Grewal, Neeru Bajwa, Diljit Dosanjh and Surveen Chawla stole the hearts of audiences by their successful films this year. Jatt & Juliet 2 broke the records of its prequel Jatt & Juliet. Jatt & Juliet 2 was also released in Pakistani Punjab in over 15 screens and was greatly liked by Pakistani audiences.[20]

Sadda Haq, a true story based in the late 1980s and early 1990s during a period of extreme turmoil in Punjab was the second blockbuster of the year 2013 only after Jatt & Juliet 2. Bhaji in Problem starring Gippy Grewal was another blockbuster of the year produced by Akshay Kumar and also having his extended appearance along with cricketer Harbhajan Singh. Other hit films were Jimmy Shergill's Saadi Love Story starring Diljit Dosanjh, Fer Mamla Gadbad Gadbad starring Roshan Prince and Japji Khaira, Jatts in Golmaal starring Arya Babbar and Samiksha, Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22 starring Yo Yo Honey Singh and superstar Gippy Grewal's Lucky Di Unlucky Story and action flick Singh vs Kaur. A religious film, Pagri Singh Da Taaj, was also released.

The Hollywood blockbuster A Good Day to Die Hard dubbed in Punjabi with superstar Gippy Grewal's voice was released in Punjab.

Many meaningful films based on social issues and the reality of Punjab were also successful like National Award winner Nabar, Stupid 7 based on student life in Punjab, Chandigarh student politics based Sikander, Sadda Haq, corruption and social issues based Bikkar Bai Sentimental, religious film Dastaar, Punjab Bolda, Haani, and Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya.

This year also saw the production of the first Punjabi 3D feature film, Pehchaan 3D, produced and directed by Manny Parmar.

Irrfan Khan starrer Qissa won four awards in Indian International Film Festival of Queensland of best actor award for Irrfan, best actress award for Tillotama Shome, best director award for Anup Singh and best cinematography for Sebastian Edschmid.[21]

See also: List of Punjabi films of 2014

In year 2014, around 42 films were released and nearly 80 percent of those films were all slapstick comedies. Most successful films of the year were blockbusters like Chaar Sahibzaade(3D), Gippy Grewal's Jatt James Bond, Disco Singh, Double Di Trouble, Diljit Dosanjh's Punjab 1984, Mr & Mrs 420, Goreya Nu Daffa Karo.[22] In This year many Action Films were released like Kirpaan: The Sword of Honour, Fateh, Romeo Ranjha, Yoddha The Warrior (2014 film) and Baaz. Released in January, Patiala Dreamz was a romantic thriller,[23] with right doses of action, suspense, romance and comedy. There were many movies touching 1984 subject such as Punjab 1984, Kaum De Heere, 47 to 84 Hun Main Kisnu Watan Kahunga. Other films released in this year were Aa Gaye Munde U.K. De starring Jimmy Shergill and Neeru Bajwa, Mundeyan Ton Bachke Rahin starring Jassi Gill, Roshan Prince and Simran Kaur Mundi, Dil Vil Pyaar Vyaar starring Gurdas Mann and Neeru Bajwa, "Cross Connection" Released on 26 December, Produced by jasbir Dhillon (Dhillon Creations) Starring: B.N. Sharma, Upasna singh, Garry warraich, Nancy johal, Gurchet chitarkar, Parkash gadhu, Dilawar sidhu, Malkeet raouny, Anita shabdeesh, Sahib singh, Raman Dhillon, Rozy, Tarsem paul with renowned singers Rahat fateh ali khan, Arif Lohar, Kamal khan, Navraj hans, Mank-e, Tochi raina.

Also this year many notable actors and singers debuted in Punjabi cinema, this year notably veteran actors Dharmendra and Poonam Dhillon in Double Di Trouble, famous Bollywood comedian Razak Khan in Marriage da garriage, Bollywood actress Zarine Khan in Jatt James Bond, singer Garry Sandhu in Romeo Ranjha.

Chaar Sahibzaade was the first Punjabi 3D animated historical drama. It was a blockbuster, grossing over ₹700 million (US$8.0 million) globally[24] and was made tax free by governments of states like Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Uttrakhand, Uttar Pradesh.[25]

The Canadian-Punjabi feature film Work Weather Wife represented Canada at the 87th Oscar Awards (87th Academy Awards) and it was the only Canadian film that made the final shortlist of 79 Best Original Songs with its songs Moon and Long Braid. At 72nd Golden Globe Awards for Best Foreign Language Feature Film and made the top 53 films in the long list. It stars Harpreet Sandhu and Reema Nagra in the lead role with Dilbag Brar and Kirat Bhattal. It is directed by Harpreet Sandhu.[26]

See also: List of Punjabi films of 2015

The year 2015 was attributed to a few directors who took the risk of taking up different subjects with some fresh stories and some fresh actors and villains. Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa and Mandy Takhar-starrer Sardaar Ji was blockbuster film and even achieved ₹500 million (US$5.7 million) milestone gross earning record, according to the film pandits. Second Blockbuster film was Amrinder Gill, Sargun Mehta, Aditi Sharma and Binnu Dhillon starrer, 1945 based rural Punjabi love story Angrej which did very well both in Punjab as well as abroad.[27]

Punjabi films with a strong storyline and an equally strong direction were Shareek (directed by Navaniat Singh, starring Jimmy Shergill and Mahie Gill), Qissa Panjab (directed by Jatinder Mauhar that weaved in seven different stories into one), Judge Singh LLB (directed by Atharv Baluja as the first Punjabi courtroom drama), Gippy Grewal's Faraar (directed by Baljit Singh Deo brought in double role with suspense) was the highest budget film with ₹130 million (US$1.5 million) in the history of Punjabi cinema. Other flop films were Dildariyaan, Mitti Na Pharol Jogiya, Oh Yaara Ainvayi Ainvayi Lut Gaya, Munde Kamaal De. While films raking up controversy or inviting a ban were The Mastermind Jinda Sukha and Pata Pata Singhan Da Vairi and Nanak Shah Fakir (Temporarily that faced a ban in some parts of the country).[28]

Main article: List of Punjabi films of 2016

In 2016, As many as 41 movies were released. Ambarsariya, Sardaar Ji 2, Love Punjab, Vaisakhi List, Channo Kamli Yaar Di, Kaptaan, Saadey CM Saab, Bambukat, Chauthi Koot, Nikka Zaildar were some of the big commercial/critical winners.

Main article: List of Punjabi films of 2017

In the first half of 2017, New concepts and excellent content paid dividends. Super Singh, Manje Bistre, Jindua, Lahoriye, Sargi, Saab Bahadar, Sarvann, Rabb Da Radio and The Great Sardaar were some of the big commercial/critical winners. In the second half of the year, Channa Mereya, Sardar Mohammad, Nikka Zaildar 2 and Vekh Baraatan Challiyan were some of the commercial hits.

Main article: List of Punjabi films of 2018

In the year 2018, the first ever war-based Punjabi movie Sajjan Singh Rangroot, set during World War I and starring Diljit Dosanjh, was released. Carry On Jatta 2 was another blockbuster and one of the highest grossing Punjabi movies of all time. Other commercially successful movies include Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua, Ashke, Laung Laachi and Laavan Phere.

Main article: List of Punjabi films of 2019

In year 2019, total 61 Punjabi films were released worldwide with superhits like Shadaa, Ardaas Karaan, Chal Mera Putt, Muklawa, Manje Bistre 2, Nikka Zaildar 3, Singham, Rabb Da Radio 2, Dil Diyaan Gallan, Blackia, Laiye Je Yaarian, Chandigarh Amritsar Chandigarh, Kaka Ji and Band Vajje.[29][30] Harjeeta won two awards for Best Punjabi Film and Best Child Actor at 66th National Film Awards.[31] Song Laung Laachi from Laung Laachi film became the first Indian song to reach one billion views on YouTube.[32]

## Festivals

[edit]

Name  | Est.  | City  | Type  | Details  | Website

|
|
|
|
|

Punjabi Film Festival | 2007 | Amritsar | Special interest | Annual festival focusing on Punjabi films. Sur Saanjh Productions & Navtej Sandhu's brainchild. This festival is the pioneer of Punjabi Film Awards. |
International Film Festival of South Asia | 2012 | Toronto | International | Annual festival focusing on the cinema of South Asia. | http://www.iffsatoronto.com
Ma Boli International Punjabi Film Festival | 2013 | Vancouver | Special interest | Annual showcase of Punjabi films. | http://www.mabolifilmfestival.com
New Zealand Punjabi Film Festival | 2017 | Auckland | Special interest | Annual showcase of Punjabi films. |
Punjabi International Film Festival | 2012 | Toronto | Special interest | Annual short film festival focusing on Punjabi films | http://www.pifftoronto.com
Sikh International Film Festival | 2013 | Toronto | Special interest | Annual showcase of Sikh films. | http://sikhfoundationcanada.com/sifft/ Archived 21 January 2019 at the Wayback Machine
Virasat Film Festival and Awards | 2016 | Melbourne | Special interest | Annual festival focusing on Punjabi films. | http://www.virasatipffa.net Archived 21 January 2018 at the Wayback Machine

## Film distribution and production companies

[edit]

Notable Punjabi film distribution and/or production companies  Company | Type | Notable Works

|
|

Humble Motion Pictures | Film Production | Carry on Jatta 3, Ardaas Karaan, Ardaas, Mar Gaye Oye Loko, Daaka, Warning, Shava Ni Girdhari Lal, Maa, Yaar Mera Titliyaan Warga
White Hill Studios | Film Production, Film Distribution | Jatt & Juliet, Jatt & Juliet 2, Carry on Jatta 2, Sardaar Ji, Sardaar Ji 2, Punjab 1984, Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi, Muklawa, Ardab Mutiyaran, Lekh, Jind Mahi, Shareek 2
Rhythm Boyz Entertainment | Film Production, Film Distribution | Chhalla Mud Ke Nahi Aaya, Jodi, Maurh, Chal Mera Putt, Chal Mera Putt 2, Chal Mera Putt 3, Angrej, Love Punjab, Bambukat, Vekh Baraatan Challiyan, Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua
Ohri Productions | Film Production, Film Distribution | Jihne Mera Dil Luteya, Blackia, Mel Karade Rabba, Yaar Anmulle, Shareek, Jindua, Mukhtiar Chadha
Thind Motion Films | Film Production | Aaja Mexico Challiye, Honsla Rakh, Babe Bhangra Paunde ne, Sher Bagga, Jodi
Studio 7 Production | Film Production | Mitti Na Pharol Jogiya, 22g Tussi Ghaint Ho, Gun & Goal, Balle O Challak Sajjna, Sargi, Sohreyan Da Pind Aa Gya
Shri Narotam Ji Productions | Film Production | Qismat 2, Moh, Bajrey Da Sitta, Surkhi Bindi, Paune 9, Sarabha
Vehli Janta Films | Film Production | Mastaney, Galwakdi, Rabb Da Radio, Rabb Da Radio 2, Sardar Mohammad
Speed Records | Film Production, Film Distribution | Dil Diyan Gallan, Jatt James Bond, Jatt & Juliet, Goreyan Nu Daffa Karo
Omjee Group aka Omjee Cine World | Film Distribution | Medal,Mastaney, Dil Diyan Gallan, Mr and Mrs 420, "Nikka Zaildar"
Neeru Bajwa Entertainment | Film Production | Buhe Barlyan, Kali Jotta, Es Jahano Door Kitte Chal Jindiye, Kokka, Beautiful Billo, Sargi, Channo Kamli Yaar Di
Villagers Film Studio | Film Production | Laung Laachi, Harjeeta, Guddiyan Patole
Geet Mp3 | Film Production | Tufang, Shooter, Jatt Brothers, Lover (2022 film)

Other notable Punjabi film & video production and distribution houses:

* Inside Motion Pictures
* Naughty Men Productions
* Dream Reality Films
* Unisys Infosolutions Pvt Ltd/Saga Music Pvt Ltd
* Theatre Army Films

## Distribution

[edit]

Regent Cinema, Amritsar Punjabi movie being shown at Hari theater Raghunath temple market Jammu, India

Prior to the late-1900s, Punjabi film companies were largely immersed in the competition for the domestic market. Limited to East Punjab and West Punjab and low number of screens in Punjabi-speaking areas of Delhi and Rajasthan (Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh) and no prospect in metro cities, distribution was a problem for Punjabi filmmakers. It was difficult to compete with the huge demand for films created by Bollywood. Gradually, Punjabi companies moved to the Australasian, European and North American markets.

In recent years, Canada has become a popular destination for shooting Punjabi films[33] and is the second largest market of Punjabi cinema.[34] About 50 percent of the revenue for all successful Punjabi films are generated from the overseas markets, including Australia, Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States.[35] A number of Punjabi films have also surpassed the gross collections of Bollywood films in the overseas markets. Punjabi films are finding more releases in Punjabi-dominated areas of South Asia, including East Punjab, West Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,[36] Uttarakhand (Rudrapur, Bajpur, Kashipur) and[37] Jammu.[38] Punjabi films are also distributed to less-Punjabi populated regions, including states of India: Bengaluru, Gujarat, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Madhya Pradesh, Nanded, Odisha, Bihar and countries: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Malaysia, Netherlands, Pakistan (other than West Punjab) and Singapore.[39] Punjabi cinema makes zero money from satellite or music due to absence of a sustainable satellite mechanism.[40][41]

At the home territory, Punjab, against only 4 multiplexes in all of East Punjab in 2007, as of 2014 the numbers have increased to 36[42] with 99 more approved by the Government of Punjab, India for construction. These in turn have attracted a large middle class audience for Punjabi films which did not exist before.

## Parallel cinema

[edit]

Punjabi film industry has established Parallel Cinema in these years also.[43][44] The National Award-winning Marhi Da Deeva (1989) mercilessly explores the issues of economic inequality, social segregation in life of dalit farm labourers and other landless communities in Punjab. Another National Award winner, Anhe Ghore Da Daan (2011) diligently puts across the distressed and frustrated life-cycle of marginalised Dalits in Punjab.[45] It is the first Punjabi-language film to have travelled to so many international film festivals. The film premiered in the Orizzonti section (Horizons) at the 68th Venice International Film Festival. It won the Special Jury Award and the $50,000 Black Pearl trophy at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival. It was also shown at the 55th BFI London Film Festival, 49th New York Film Festival and the 16th Busan International Film Festival.[46] The film also won the Golden Peacock award for best film at the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2012 held in Panaji, Goa.[47] Khamosh Pani (2003) is a tragic story of widowed mother and her young son set in a late 1970s village in West Punjab and relations of communities after 1947 Partition of Punjab starring Kiron Kher and Shilpa Shukla.

## Short films

[edit]

* Nooran (2013), based on famous Punjabi author, Balwant Gargi's story Rabbo Marasan, which represents a woman's emotions, Directed by Navtej Sandhu, was sent for Cannes Film Festival-Short Film Corner.[48]
* Kambdi Deorri (The Shivering Gateway) (2014), based on famous Punjabi author, Jaswant Singh Kanwal's story Akk the Amrit, which shows the deteriorating situation of ties within families, Directed by Navtej Sandhu, was again sent for Cannes Film Festival-Short Film Corner.
* The Half Ticket (2018), which was based on a true love story in which the needs of the world overshadow true love, is written and directed by Channa Rai, and stars Victor John. was in Nominated for Best Director at Pune Film Festival-2018.[49]
* Sutta Naag (2014), adapted from Sahitya Akademi Award winner Punjabi writer, Late Ram Sarup Ankhi's short story of same name. The narrative portrays 50 years old Punjab and addresses serious subjects like infidelity and the suppression of women has been premiered at Punjabi International Film Festival, Toronto.[50]
* Khoon (2015), film based on Gurbachan Singh Bhullar's Short story was shown at the Punjabi International Film Festival, Toronto.[51]
* Daughter of the Bin (2015), based on famous Play writer, Dr. Jatinder Brar's play, which shows the plight of the newly born girl child thrown in the dustbin and adopted by a beggar, award-winning short film.
* Gawachi Pagg (The Lost Turban) (2016), based on famous Punjabi writer, Jaswant Singh Kanwal's story, a very emotional and powerful story of an innocent young boy who was looking for his "Lost Esteem" during the militancy period in the era of 80s' in Punjab, internationally critically acclaimed short film Directed by Navtej Sandhu.
* Zindagi a Life of Kinner (2012), based on the story of Jagdev Dhillon, talks about the lives of the third gender, Eunuch (Hijra). The film was directed by Harman Aggarwal and was showcased in Punjabi International Film Festival, Toronto and Delhi International Film Festival.
* Heer Unstoppable (2017) Based on the Plight of women in Punjab who are married to NRI's without any Background check. The film was official selection to Five International Film Festivals with winning Best Director for Jonita Doda at Pink city International Film Festival.
* RAIN (Simran Sidhu, 2017) is the story of a farmer (Bittu Bajwa) on the verge of suicide as he waits for it to rain. The winner of six international awards (including one for Best Drama at Festigious L.A. and a Remi Award, whose previous recipients include Hollywood legends Steven Spielberg, Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas), writer-director Simran Sidhu's mini-epic also boasts a sweeping score by the world renowned Indonesian composer Elwin Hendrijanto, and guest stars Yashpal Sharma who was so fond of the script that he did the film for free.
* Bhulekha (2018), based on famous Punjabi author, Jaswant Singh Kanwal's story Vehan paye Dariya, love story with very different kind of misunderstanding, Directed by Navtej Sandhu.

## Highest-grossing Punjabi films (worldwide)

[edit]

Main article: List of highest-grossing Punjabi films

† Background shading indicates films playing in the week commencing 28 February 2025 in theaters around the world.

Rank  | Peak  | Title  | Year  | Director(s)  | Writer(s)  | Production House(s)  | Worldwide Gross  | Reference(s)

|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|

1  | 1  | Carry on Jatta 2 | 2018  | Smeep Kang | Vaibhav Suman,

Shreya Srivastava, Naresh Kathooria

| White Hill Studios, A & A Advisors  | ₹57.67 Crore  | [52]

[53] [54] [55]

2  | 2  | Saunkan Saunkne | 2022  | Amarjit Singh Saron  | Amberdeep Singh | Naad Studios, Dreamiyata Entertainment, JR Production House  | ₹57.60 Crore  | [56][57]
3  | 2  | Chal Mera Putt 2 | 2020-2021-2022  | Janjot Singh | Rakesh Dhawan,

Sunil Dhawan

| Rhythm Boyz Entertainment, Gillz Network, Omjee Star Studios, Phantasy Films Ltd Productions  | ₹57.15 Crore  | [58]
4  | 3  | Honsla Rakh | 2021-2022  | Amarjit Singh Saron  | Rakesh Dhawan  | Thind Motion Films, Storytime Productions  | ₹54.62 Crore  | [59]
5  | 2  | Shadaa | 2019  | Jagdeep Sidhu | Jagdeep Sidhu | A & A Adivisors, Brat Films  | ₹53.10 Crore  | [citation needed]
6  | 1  | Chaar Sahibzaade | 2014  | Harry Baweja | Harry Baweja,

Baldev Gill, Pathik Vats

| Baweja Movies, Irealities Technology  | ₹46.34 Crore  | [60]
7  | 7  | Chhalla Mud Ke Nahi Aaya | 2022  | Amrinder Gill | Amberdeep Singh | Amberdeep Films, Rhythm Boyz Entertainment  | ₹39.43 Crore  |
8  | 2  | Sardaarji | 2015  | Rohit Jugraj | Dheeraj Rattan,

Jatinder Lall, Surmeet Maavi

| White Hill Studios  | ₹38.38 Crore  | [61]
9  | 6  | Chal Mera Putt 3 | 2021  | Janjot Singh | Rakesh Dhawan,

Jatinder Lall

| Rhythm Boyz Entertainment, Gillz Network, Omjee Star Studios, Canvas Creations Ltd  | ₹35.84 Crore  |

## Awards

[edit]

* Filmfare Awards
* PTC Punjabi Film Awards
* Punjabi International Film Academy Awards
* Brit Asia Film Awards
* Virasat Film Awards
* Punjabi Entertainment Festival & Awards

## Personalities

[edit]

### Directors

[edit]

* InsideAKY
* Himanshu Dhar
* Gaurav Manku
* Dev Choudhary
* Amberdeep Singh
* Amitoj Maan
* Amit Prasher
* Anurag Singh
* Baljit Singh Deo
* Balwant Dullat
* Channa Rai
* Chitrarth Singh
* Gippy Grewal
* VFX Navi
* Mohit Dhandha
* Manan Taneja
* Harry Baweja
* Jagdeep Sidhu
* Ksshitij Chaudhary
* Manbhavan Singh
* Manmord Sidhu
* Manmohan Singh
* Manoj Punj
* Navalpreet Rangi
* Neeru Bajwa
* Nidhi.M. Singh
* Pali Bhupinder Singh
* Pankaj Batra
* Rohit Jugraj Chauhan
* Simerjit Singh
* Smeep Kang
* Sukh Sanghera
* Sukhminder Dhanjal
* Inderpal Singh

### Actors

[edit]

* Amrinder Gill, star of Angrej and Lahoriye

* Babbu Maan, star of Hashar and Ekam – Son of Soil

* Binnu Dhillon, star of Bambukat and Carry On Jatta

* Diljit Dosanjh, star of Jatt & Juliet and Punjab 1984

* Gippy Grewal, star of Carry on Jatta 2 and Manje Bistre

* Gurdas Maan, star of Shaheed-e-Mohabbat Boota Singh and Ucha Dar Babe Nanak Da

* Jassi Gill, star of Mr & Mrs 420 and Sargi

* Neeru Bajwa, star of Jatt & Juliet 2 and Jihne Mera Dil Luteya

* Rana Ranbir, star of Ardaas and Asees

* Sargun Mehta, star of Angrej and Lahoriye

* Sonam Bajwa, star of Manje Bistre and Sardaar Ji 2

* Tarsem Jassar, star of Rabb Da Radio and Rabb Da Radio 2

* Gugu Gill, star of Putt Jattan De and Badla Jatti Da

* Japji Khaira star of Mitti Wajaan Maardi and Dharti

The Punjabi film industry has produced a number of successful actors, actresses, writers, directors and filmmakers, many of whom have been known internationally.

Main article: List of Punjabi cinema actors

* InsideAKY
* B.N. Sharma
* Gugu Gill
* Harish Verma
* Jaswinder Bhalla
* Karamjit Anmol
* Nav Bajwa
* Ranjit Bawa
* Shavinder Mahal
* Sardar Sohi

Actresses

Main article: List of Punjabi cinema actresses

* Himanshi Khurana
* Japji Khaira
* Juhi Chawla
* Kulraj Randhawa
* Mahi Gill
* Monica Gill
* Nimrat Khaira
* Nirmal Rishi
* Simi Chahal
* Wamiqa Gabbi
* Japji Khaira
* Navneet Kaur Dhillon
* Sonam Bajwa

## See also

[edit]

* Film portal
* Punjab portal

* List of cinema of the world
* List of Punjabi films
* List of highest-grossing Punjabi films
* Lists of Indian Punjabi films

## References

[edit]

1. ^ Vinayak, A. J. (28 September 2022). "Why films from the South set the box office on fire". The Hindu Business Line. Retrieved 8 September 2023.
2. ^ "How Professionals Are Transforming the Country with there Independence, Enterprise And Can-Do-Spirit". specials.intoday.in. Retrieved 10 August 2023.
3. ^ "List of featurefilms Certified in 2022" (PDF).
4. ^ Rawle, Steven (2018). Transnational Cinema: An Introduction. Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 28\. ISBN 9781137530141.
5. ^ Jeffrey, Craig (2017). Modern India: A Very Short Introduction. Very Short Introductions. Oxford University Press. p. 88\. ISBN 9780191082238.
6. ^ "Diljit Dosanjh, Satinder Sartaaj, and other Pollywood stars mourn the demise of the poet-writer Surjit Patar - "Punjabi literature has lost a gem"". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 21 August 2024.
7. ^ a b Books, L. L. C. (September 2010). Punjwood Film Actors: Sunil Dutt, Balraj Sahni, Gurdas Maan, Jaspal Bhatti, Harbhajan Mann, Yograj Singh, Tulip Joshi, Kimi Verma, Veerendra. General Books LLC. ISBN 978-1-155-38872-4.
8. ^ a b "HIGHEST GROSSING INDIAN FILMS OF 2020! Indian Cinema Box Office Report of 2020 With Budget & Verdict, Including South Indian Films". IMDb. Retrieved 23 August 2024.
9. ^ a b c d e f "History of Lollywood: The Silent Era". Pakistani Film. Retrieved 1 July 2008.
10. ^ "Husn Ka Daku". IMDb. Retrieved 1 July 2008.
11. ^ "Heer Ranjha (1932)". IMDb. Retrieved 1 July 2008.
12. ^ Gokulsing, K.; Wimal Dissanayake (2004). Indian popular cinema: a narrative of cultural change. Trentham Books. p. 24\. ISBN 978-1-85856-329-9.
13. ^ "The Sunday Tribune – Spectrum". tribuneindia.com. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
14. ^ "Bhati Gate – Lahore's Chelsea". Academy of Punjab. Retrieved 1 July 2008.
15. ^ Ghosh, Partha S. (2016). Migrants, Refugees and the Stateless in South Asia. SAGE Publications. p. 263\. ISBN 9789351508557.
16. ^ "The Voice Next Door".
17. ^ "Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam (1974) Full Cast & Crew". IMDb.
18. ^ "In search of a bigger role". Saturday Extra. The Tribune. 19 May 2007. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
19. ^ Singh, Jasmine (12 December 2014). "Words aren't enough". The Tribune. Archived from the original on 21 September 2021. "Mirza, said to be the most expensive Punjabi film (Rs 9 crore) in the history of Punjabi cinema! "Really, is that what you think? Well, what I know is that the film was made with Rs 3 crore," leaving the rest to our discretion."
20. ^ Roy, Vijay C (19 May 2014). "The engineer who produces blockbuster Punjabi films". Business Standard. Archived from the original on 21 October 2023. "Sidhu was the man behind the wide release of Jatt and Juliet 2 in Pakistan last October"
21. ^ Sarika Sharma (4 July 2014). "Punjabi film sweeps Indian International Film Festival in Australia". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257.
22. ^ Singh, Jasmine (16 December 2014). "Happy go not-so-lucky". The Tribune. Archived from the original on 27 October 2021. "Punjab 1984, Jatt James Bond and Chaar Sahibzaade, these three films gave the industry the much needed hope and support to run a little more"
23. ^ "Patiala Dreamz". ballewood. BNN. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 14 December 2014.
24. ^ Malvania, Urvi (9 January 2015). "Harry Baweja's Chaar Saahibzaade gives 250% returns". Business Standard. Archived from the original on 12 July 2023. "So much so that the movie, which cost Baweja Rs 20 crore, has earned around Rs 70 crore globally"
25. ^ "The 3D animation was so good that I felt like I was sitting in that chapter of history and the 'sahibzaade' had come alive around". Archived from the original on 20 December 2014.
26. ^ "Surrey-based Punjabi film Work Weather Wife shortlisted for Academy Award".
27. ^ "Regional films too did substantially well at the Box Office. Punjabi films – 'Sardaar Ji' and 'Angrej'".
28. ^ "Of Fridays and fried days. They all promised a film with a difference. But only a few Punjabi filmmakers kept their promise in 2015".
29. ^ Kaur, Gurnaaz. "Power to Pollywood". The Tribune. Retrieved 31 December 2019.
30. ^ "'Ardaas Karaan' to 'Surkhi Bindi': Top 7 movies of 2019 that proved Punjabi cinema is more than just rom-coms". The Times of India. 31 December 2019. Retrieved 5 January 2020.
31. ^ "Harjeeta wins best Punjabi Film Award: 'If movie based on me can inspire youngsters, I will feel lucky'". The Indian Express. 10 August 2019. Retrieved 31 December 2019.
32. ^ "Laung Laachi first Indian song to get 1-billion YouTube views". Outlook India. Retrieved 31 December 2019.
33. ^ "Victoria meets Bollywood: Punjabi stars shoot film on Inner Harbour".
34. ^ "At least 50 percent of the money is recovered from overseas," Sahni said, adding that Canada is a strong market for Punjabi cinema".
35. ^ "Over 50 per cent of the revenue for all Punjabi films comes from the overseas market. North America leads, followed by the UK. New Zealand is a promising emerging market".
36. ^ "the market extends beyond Punjab to Himachal, Haryana, Jammu, western UP, Uttarakhand, and of course the UK, US, Canada and Australia".
37. ^ "Punjabi community settled in Udham Singh Nagar". The Times of India. 28 March 2014.
38. ^ "new Punjabi movie "Proud to be a Sikh" is being released in Jammu".
39. ^ "Housefull, far & beyond: Punjabi films are now capturing sizeable markets in territories outside Punjab, both in India and abroad".
40. ^ "challenge Punjabi filmmakers face is getting satellite rights".
41. ^ "Punjabi film industry do not have many choices for a satellite release".
42. ^ "Screens".
43. ^ "Reel vs real Punjab".
44. ^ "Independent films are changing the image of Punjabi cinema".
45. ^ "Gurvinder Singh's "Anhey Gorhey Da Daan" which won multiple National Awards in 2012 deals with the rural working class and the plight of Dalit Sikhs in Bhatinda belt of the State but it is dubbed as niche for an audience which is not considered to be experimental".
46. ^ Jatinder Preet (2 October 2011). "Punjabi Film Making Waves at International Film Festivals". The Sunday Guardian. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 March 2015.
47. ^ "Punjabi film Anhey Ghore Da Daan wins the best Punjabi film award at IFFI". Dainik Bhaskar.
48. ^ "Punjabi cinema's cannes debut". Archived from the original on 13 July 2015.
49. ^ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8470642/mediaviewer/rm279528192/?ref_=tt_ov_i [user-generated source]
50. ^ "'Sutta Naag' was also premiered at the IFFSA, PIFF in 2013". Archived from the original on 13 May 2015.
51. ^ "Khoon, the film received critical acclaim at the Toronto Punjabi Film Festival".
52. ^ "Carry On Jatta 2 Smashes Records By A Distance".
53. ^ "Top Ten Panjabi Grossers All Time - Carry On Jatta 2 Rules".
54. ^ "Carry On Jatta 2 Smashes All Records In Week One".
55. ^ "Carry On Jatta 2 Sets Another Record On Sunday".
56. ^ "Upcoming Punjabi Movies on OTT 2024 - Cinebuds". 7 January 2024. Retrieved 1 February 2024.
57. ^ Zee Studios (24 May 2022). "SaunkanSaunkne a SUPERHIT! Crossed 40 crores in just 10 days. Movie running successfully in theatres now!". Twitter. Retrieved 24 May 2022.
58. ^ "Chal Mera Putt 2 CERTAIN HIT Stopped By Virus". Box Office India.
59. ^ Diljit Dosanjh (official) (3 December 2021). "54 worldwide box office gross on 50th day". Twitter. Retrieved 4 December 2021.
60. ^ "Top Panjabi Worldwide Grossers".
61. ^ Singh, Jasmine (19 July 2015). "The turbaned prince". Spectrum. The Tribune.

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* 1950s
* 1960s
* 1970s
* 1980s
* 1990s
* 2000s
* 2010s
* 2020s

|

By year|

* 1970
* 1971
* 1972
* 1973
* 1974
* 1975
* 1976
* 1977
* 1978
* 1979
* 1980
* 1981
* 1982
* 1983
* 1984
* 1985
* 1986
* 1987
* 1988
* 1989
* 1990
* 1991
* 1992
* 1993
* 1994
* 1995
* 1996
* 1997
* 1998
* 1999
* 2000
* 2001
* 2002
* 2003
* 2004
* 2005
* 2006
* 2007
* 2008
* 2009
* 2010
* 2011
* 2012
* 2013
* 2014
* 2015
* 2016
* 2017
* 2018
* 2019
* 2020
* 2021
* 2022
* 2023
* 2024

Production companies
and studios|

* White Hill Productions
* Sippy Grewal Productions
* Basic Brothers Productions
* Baweja Movies

Awards|

* Punjabi International Film Academy Awards
* PTC Punjabi Film Awards

Theatres|

* Event Cinemas
* Hoyts
* PVR Cinemas
* Cineplex Entertainment
* PAF Cinema
* Cineworld

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