In a major blow to the makers of the critically acclaimed crime drama “Santosh,” the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked its theatrical release in India. The Board has raised concerns regarding the film’s depiction of police brutality, Islamophobia, and misogyny, sparking controversy around censorship in Indian cinema.
Key Highlights:
Director Sandhya Suri Speaks Out
Responding to CBFC’s decision, Santosh’s director Sandhya Suri described the situation as “disappointing and heartbreaking” in a recent conversation with The Guardian.
“It was surprising for all of us because I didn’t feel that these issues were particularly new to Indian cinema or hadn’t been raised before by other films,” she stated.
CBFC’s Extensive and Impractical Cuts
According to Sandhya, the CBFC demanded numerous and significant cuts, which she described as practically impossible to accommodate without compromising the integrity of the film. Many suggested edits pertained directly to critical topics like police conduct and societal challenges, integral to the film’s message.
“It was very important to me that the film be released in India, so I did try to figure out if there was a way to make it work,” said Suri. “But in the end, it was just too difficult to make those cuts and have a film that still made sense, let alone stayed true to its vision.”
She further defended the narrative, stating the film did not glorify violence or sensationalize sensitive themes, unlike several mainstream films involving police portrayals.
A Politically Sensitive Storyline
Santosh stars actress Shahana Goswami in the lead role as a widowed housewife who becomes a police constable following her husband’s death. She quickly becomes involved in investigating the murder of a young Dalit girl, plunging her into sensitive and politically charged circumstances.
Director Sandhya Suri admitted to feeling “nervous” ahead of the film’s intended India premiere due to its provocative themes. Yet she emphasized that addressing these issues head-on was vitally important for the audience.
International Acclaim vs Domestic Controversy
Last year, Santosh garnered international recognition with its premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. It was also the United Kingdom’s official entry to the Oscars, marking significant global acclaim.
However, despite its international appreciation, the CBFC’s stance reveals ongoing sensitivities and strict censorship practices within Indian cinema, prompting renewed discussions about artistic freedom in the country.
OTT Release Offers Alternative Viewing Option
While the CBFC has restricted Santosh’s theatrical run in India, viewers can still access the film through the global OTT streaming platform MUBI. This online release ensures Indian audiences can engage with the critically praised drama despite the theatrical ban.
The Larger Debate on Censorship
The controversy surrounding the Santosh film underscores a broader discussion around artistic expression, censorship, and cultural sensitivities in Indian filmmaking. Sandhya Suri’s outspoken reaction highlights filmmakers’ ongoing struggles in balancing authenticity with stringent content guidelines.
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