Film ‘Santosh’ sent from UK to the Oscars, banned in India? know why
The Director Sandhya Suri Disappointed by the Censorship Board Against ‘Santosh’
British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri has revealed in an interview with The Guardian, that her film ‘Santosh’ was not allowed to have a release anywhere in India. According to Suri, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has some real reservations about various sequences in this film, which claims to be a depiction of police brutality and realities of life. This is despite it being critically acclaimed around the world and banned in India.
What is ‘Santosh’ About?
Northern India is the setting for Santosh, which focuses on the voyage of a widow who goes to join the police force. She delves into investigating the homicide of a Dalit girl and reveals essential aspects like discrimination, police violence, and oppression regarding marginalized communities. The film tackles issues such as gender inequality, violence based on caste, and intolerance based on religion in India.
Santosh was at Cannes, where it created a storm, and was subsequently put forward by the UK as a potential nominee for the Oscars. It also received a BAFTA nomination for Best Debut Feature, and lead actress Shahana Goswami was a recipient of the Best Actress Award at the Asian Film Awards. It’s a Hindi film, shot in India, with an Indian cast, but now faces a ban in its own country.
What prompted its ban by the Censor Board?
Suri expressed her disappointment, stating that the CBFC objected to the negative portrayal of the police. She also claimed that the board asked for so many cuts that the film’s essence would be lost.
Calling the decision heartbreaking and frustrating, Suri pointed out that such things are common in Indian cinema but still, her film has been stopped.
The ban serves as a cause for debate between the freedom of expression and censorship in Indian films, especially those concerning social and political issues.
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