CBFC Blocks 'Santosh' Release Over Sensitive Themes

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked the theatrical release of 'Santosh', a film by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, citing controversial portrayals of police brutality, caste discrimination, and misogyny. Despite its international acclaim, including a premiere at the Cannes Film Festival and being the UK's official entry for the Oscars, the CBFC demanded extensive cuts that filmmaker Suri argues would compromise the film's integrity. The film, featuring a young widow investigating the murder of a Dalit girl, grapples with sensitive societal issues such as caste-based violence and institutional Islamophobia. Suri expressed disappointment at the decision, noting that similar themes have been explored in Indian cinema before. The film had initially received script approval for shooting in India and was set for distribution by India's largest cinema chain. The refusal to approve 'Santosh' is seen as a setback for Indian audiences eager to engage with its critical narrative.