The film Santosh, which was the UK’s official entry for the Oscars in the international feature category and a BAFTA nominee, has been blocked in India by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, the film was made in India and is in Hindi. Reports suggest that the Indian censor board did not approve its release due to concerns about its portrayal of the police.
UK’s Oscar Entry Santosh Blocked
The film Santosh highlights social issues, including discrimination, police brutality, and deep-rooted misogyny. It also touches upon sexual violence against lower caste women and growing anti-Muslim prejudice in India. According to sources, CBFC refused to clear the film because of its depiction of these sensitive themes.
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Sandhya Suri expressed her disappointment, calling the decision heartbreaking. She revealed that CBFC had demanded extensive cuts, which were impossible to implement without affecting the film’s core message. The list of required changes reportedly covered several pages, including modifications related to police behavior and societal issues.
Several CBFC board members declined to comment on the matter, stating that only the chairman, Prasoon Joshi, could address such issues. However, filmmaker and CBFC board member Vivek Agnihotri shared his personal view that censorship reflects insecurity. He emphasized that a strong society should embrace art and creativity rather than suppress it.
Suri explained that she had tried to comply with the board’s requirements but ultimately decided against making the changes, as they would alter the essence of the film. She had hoped for the film’s release in India, but the extensive censorship demands made it impossible.
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The film’s controversy has sparked discussions about artistic freedom and censorship in India. Many believe that cinema should be a medium for storytelling without excessive restrictions, while others argue that certain portrayals must be regulated to avoid misrepresentation. The debate continues as Santosh remains unavailable for Indian audiences.
