Banned Film Gets OTT Release: Will CBFC Be Silent?

Sandhya Suri’s Santosh has earned global acclaim, winning multiple awards and even representing the UK at the Oscars this year.

Despite its success abroad, the film faced a major roadblock in India. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) blocked its release, citing concerns over its depiction of police brutality, misogyny, and Islamophobia.

Originally set to release in theatres on January 10, 2025, Santosh was banned after the board demanded several cuts and objected to the use of the word “Dalit.” The filmmakers refused to make these changes, leading to the ban and widespread backlash.

Many viewers criticised the censor board for restricting a film that tackles real and uncomfortable truths about society.

Now, there’s good news. The film will finally stream in India. Santosh is releasing on Lionsgate Play (OTTplay Premium) on October 17.

The film, written and directed by Sandhya Suri, is a British-Indian production starring Shahana Goswami in the lead. She plays a young widow who steps into her late husband’s role as a police constable in North India’s rural heartland.

As Santosh investigates the rape and murder of a Dalit teenager, she confronts the harsh realities of caste, gender, and corruption within the system and society.

Sunita Rajwar, known for her performance in Panchayat, appears as Inspector Sharma, Santosh’s mentor and guide.

While audiences are eager to watch the film, many wonder whether it has been edited to pass Indian regulations. Others worry that since Lionsgate Play is a premium service, access will remain limited to a smaller, paying audience.

Piracy might spread the film further, but the real question remains will Santosh reach the people it was made for, or stay confined to a niche segment online?