Short listed for best international feature at the Oscars this year, Sandhya Suri directorial ’Santosh’ is facing delays in theatrical release in India due to a certification hold up by the Central Board of Film Certification.
‘Santosh’ was planned for release in Indian theatres on 10th January, but has has an unexpected hold up and what is more concerning and puzzling for the makers is that the film’s script had been previously approved by the Indian authorities.
Though ‘Santosh’ is UK’s official entry the Academy Awards, it is based in northern India and stars Indian actors like Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar. The film follows a widow who inherits her late husband’s job of police constable and becomes part of the investigation of the murder of an underage girl from a marginalised caste community.
Other than being in the Oscar short list, ‘Santosh’ is also nominated at 78th BAFTA for the outstanding debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer.
‘Santosh’ has received huge acclaim during the Festival runs and has also won various accolades. Given its achievement and global recognition, this hold up by CBFC comes as shocking and also raises concerns about censorship in India.
What could be the reason for this delay when the script had already received approval from authorities for shooting in India. By not citing any reason for why the release has been put on hold, CBFC has allowed speculations to pour in and they definitely aren’t good.
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