CBFC Denies Theatrical Release for Santosh, OTT Premiere Set for October 17

The critically acclaimed Hindi-language crime drama Santosh has been denied certification for theatrical release in India. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) raised objections to the film’s portrayal of police brutality, caste discrimination, and misogyny.

Written and directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, Santosh follows a young widow who joins the police force and investigates the murder of a Dalit girl. Despite missing a theatrical release in India, the film will now reach audiences via Lionsgate Play starting October 17.

The film has already received international recognition, having premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and serving as the U.K.’s official entry for the Oscars’ Best International Feature category. It also earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Debut Feature. The lead roles are played by Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar.

Critics and cinephiles are eager to see how Indian OTT audiences respond to the hard-hitting social commentary that made Santosh a global talking point.