Despite receiving critical acclaim and securing an official entry from the UK for the Academy Awards, Santosh is facing challenges in obtaining clearance for release in India. While audiences eagerly await its theatrical debut, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has stalled the film’s release, citing objectionable content.
The censor board has reiterated that certain scenes and dialogues in the film are not suitable for public screening. Officials stated that the filmmakers were informed of the concerns but declined to implement the suggested modifications, resulting in the film’s indefinite delay.
“The filmmakers have made several attempts to release the film in India. We provided recommendations, but they chose not to comply. Even the revising committee suggested modifications, but no consensus was reached,” a CBFC representative said.
Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh follows a female police officer as she investigates the murder of a young woman while navigating systemic challenges. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival last year, has garnered international recognition.
Originally scheduled for release in India on January 10, Santosh has been postponed due to censorship concerns. The filmmakers have expressed disappointment, stating that Indian audiences are being denied the opportunity to watch a film recognized on the global stage.
