Santosh lead actress Shahana Goswami has recently speak up on Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) blocking the theatrical release of the film in India. Directed by Sandhya Suri the film has received global recognition and was chosen as the UK’s official entry for Oscar Awards.

However, even after its international praising, the film is facing censorship challenges in its home country (India).

Shahana Goswami On Santosh Ban In India

In an interview with India Today, Shahana shared her dissapointment over the ban referring it ‘heartbreaking.’ She said, “It makes me feel very sad. It’s upsetting that audiences here- where the film is set, won’t get to see it. The fact that Santosh has been appreciated at film festivals even in India, makes it even more unfortunate. It’s a shame that it will not have a theatrical release.”

Although the film had it’s world premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in 2024 and is available online in India. The filmmakers had hoped for a wider theatrical release but now this seems like not happening unless a solution is reached with the CBFC.

Also Read: CBFC Puts Brakes On Sandhya Suri’s Upcoming Film Santosh- What’s Behind The Controversial Move?

What Objection CBFC Has

According to the reports, CBFC has raised concerns about how the film has depicted the sensitive societal issues like Islamophobia, misogyny and violence within the Indian police force. While the filmmakers have been given a list of required changes Shahana revealed that the team does not agree with the suggested cuts.

While Santosh continues to earn praise internationally, its fate in India remains unclear. Many in the industry have even put a question on the restrictions imposed on socially relevant films.