Shahana Goswami's 'Santosh' won't release in India after all
What's the story
The critically acclaimed film Santosh, directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, has reportedly been refused release in India over the portrayal of police brutality, misogyny, and Islamophobia.
The movie, set in a fictional north Indian town, follows a young widow (Shahana Goswami) who joins the police force and investigates the murder of a young Dalit girl.
Despite its international success, including its Cannes debut and Oscar shortlist, India's censor board refused to approve it for domestic release, reported The Guardian.
Censorship concerns
'Santosh' faced censorship over portrayal of police and societal issues
Santosh follows a fictional narrative, giving a glimpse into the Indian police force, with themes of misogyny, anti-Dalit discrimination, and the normalization of police brutality and torture.
The film also tackles sexual violence against lower caste women and anti-Muslim bigotry in India.
Suri called the censorship decision "disappointing and heartbreaking," telling the portal that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had demanded a list of radical cuts so extensive and comprehensive that they would be "impossible" to implement.
Release significance
Suri emphasized the importance of the film's release in India
Despite her worries over India's current cultural climate, Suri stressed the importance of releasing Santosh in the country.
"It was vitally important for me that the very people affected by the issues in the film were able to see it," she said.
The film drew inspiration from the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, or the Nirbhaya case, and Suri worked with Indian non-government organizations while developing the story.
With an Indian cast, it has been shot in India, too.
Screening status
'Santosh' is currently being screened in UK cinemas
While Santosh stays blocked in India, it's currently being screened in UK cinemas.
Suri was adamant on fighting for the film's release to Indian audiences, saying, "All my work has been about India; one film was deeply nostalgic, another was super beautiful and sensual."
"Yes, this one shows another face of the country. But there's humanity in everybody in this film."