Hindi Film Santosh, Britain’s Official Oscar Entry, Finally Set for India Release on Lionsgate Play

After nearly a year-long struggle over censorship, the Hindi film Santosh, Britain’s official entry to the Oscars last year, is finally getting a release in India. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival 2024, could not secure a theatrical release earlier due to issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). It is now set to release digitally on Lionsgate Play on October 17.

Directed by Sandhya Suri and starring Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar, Santosh tells the story of a young widow who inherits her late husband’s police job. Her symbolic appointment turns into a moral reckoning when she investigates the rape and murder of a Dalit teenager. The film has been widely praised for its sensitive depiction of caste-based crime and policing in India.

Shahana Goswami described the film as deeply personal:

“A beautifully written story, depicted truthfully, holding up a mirror to the world we live in… Sunita Rajwar has done an excellent job playing a very complex character. You will see her in a completely new avatar. I cannot wait for audiences in India to finally watch the film.”

The release had been repeatedly delayed due to CBFC objections, with the board demanding multiple cuts. Sunita Rajwar had earlier told PTI:

“It is banned. They are asking for so many edits that it’s not possible. We just want the audience to see the film and our work.”

Produced by Good Chaos, Cinefrance Studios, and MetFilm Production, Santosh was Britain’s official submission to the 2025 Oscars, making it to the December longlist.