Kanwaljit Bhullar

  The recent Supreme Court judgment on the misuse of demolition as a form of punishment—a tactic widely termed as "bulldozer justice"—has drawn significant attention, raising critical questions about the rule of law, due process, and the arbitrary use of state power. The stark sight of bulldozers tearing down homes without adequate notice or following the due course of law is not only chilling but recalls the disturbing possibility of a lawless system. The Supreme Court, in an assertive ruling, has made it clear that punishment without due process is unconstitutional and a gross violation of fundamental rights. Yet, one wonders if this timely judicial intervention will resonate within the executive and among law enforcement agencies. The Judiciary’s Reaffirmation of Justice and Due Process   A bench led by Justices K V Vishwanathan and B R Gavai has made a powerful statement by underscoring that justice cannot be served at the end of a bulldozer. The Supreme Court has c...

The evolution of Indian Punjabi cinema is often associated with mainstream genres focused on romance, family drama, and comedy, yet the industry has also produced exceptional art films that push cultural, social, and artistic boundaries. These movies bring to the screen nuanced narratives that delve into complex themes—be it rural struggles, socio-economic disparities, or historical traumas. This article explores the finest examples of Punjabi art cinema, including “Anhe Ghore Da Daan”, “Eh Janam Tumhare Lekhe”, “Chaar Sahebzaade”, “Marhi Da Deeva”, “Waaris”, and “Chann Pardesi”. Each film presents a unique perspective, combining compelling storytelling, soulful music, brilliant performances, and dedicated direction. Anhe Ghore Da Daan (2011).  Based on Gurdial Singh's novel, “Anhe Ghore Da Daan” (translated as *Alms for the Blind Horse*) is a poetic examination of rural Punjabi life. Directed by Gurvinder Singh, the film portrays a single day in the lives of Dalit farmworkers, w...

The Renaissance of Punjabi Cinema   Over the past decade, Punjabi cinema has experienced an extraordinary evolution. Traditionally known for lighthearted comedies, the industry has successfully diversified into an array of genres, from drama to thriller to historical and social narratives. This shift has elevated Punjabi cinema from regional entertainment to a platform that resonates with a global audience, including the Punjabi diaspora and beyond. This article will delve into the journey of Punjabi cinema, highlighting key films, emerging talent, and the influence of digital platforms on the industry’s growth. Evolution of Punjabi Cinema: From Comedy to Diverse Genres Punjabi cinema’s transformation began with its reliance on humor to engage audiences, with films like “Carry On Jatta”(2012) and “Jatt and Juliet” (2012) dominating the scene. These comedies provided audiences with feel-good stories rooted in rural Punjab, often laced with humor that celebrated cultural idiosy...