‘Santosh’, UK's Official Oscar Entry, Blocked By CBFC India. Here's Why

Shahana Goswami’s critically acclaimed film Santosh has run into trouble with Indian censors. The crime drama, which was the UK's official entry to the Oscars, has been met with resistance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The board has asked for a long list of cuts before granting a theatrical release, putting the film’s fate in limbo.

‘Santosh’ Struggles for Release in India, Shahana Goswami Reacts

In an interview with India Today, Shahana Goswami opened up about the situation, stating, "The censor has given a list of changes they require for the film to release, and we as a team are not in agreement with the cuts as they would change the film too much, and so it is in a deadlock where it probably won't release theatrically in India."

The actor further expressed her disappointment over the CBFC’s demands, highlighting the inconsistency in the certification process. "It's just sad that something that has gone through censor approval at the script level should require so many cuts and changes for it to be considered okay to release in India," she added.

Currently, Santosh finds itself at a standstill, as there is no direct way to appeal CBFC’s decision. Sandhya Suri, who directed Santosh, reportedly revealed that the suggested cuts could significantly alter the essence of the story. She has the option to challenge the ruling in court, but this route can be both expensive and time-consuming, with no certainty of a favourable outcome.

Santosh is a gripping crime drama that follows the journey of a newly widowed housewife, played by Goswami, who is unexpectedly thrust into her late husband’s role as a police constable. As she takes on an investigation into a young girl's murder, she finds herself confronting deep-rooted caste discrimination, police brutality, and sexual violence, themes that make the film both powerful and controversial.

The film garnered international recognition when it premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in 2024. 

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Moreover, Goswami won the Best Actress award and Suri won Best New Director award at the Asian Film Awards Academy for the film. 

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While its theatrical release in India remains uncertain, Santosh is currently available for streaming on MUBI.