Shahana Goswami’s ‘Santosh’ Hits OTT After Ban Over Casteism and Police Brutality Themes
Controversial Film, Blocked by CBFC, Premieres Uncut on Lionsgate Play on October 17
Mumbai, Oct 8: After months of controversy and a nationwide ban, ‘Santosh’, starring Shahana Goswami, is finally coming to Indian audiences through OTT. The film will premiere on Lionsgate Play on October 17, marking the end of a long struggle with Indian censors.
The film premiered internationally at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May 2024 and received critical acclaim. It later screened at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival as part of the South Asia Competition section, garnering praise for its socially relevant storytelling.
Despite global recognition, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) refused to clear its theatrical release in India in January 2025. The objections were reportedly due to depictions of casteism, Islamophobia, misogyny, and police brutality themes the film actually critiques rather than endorses. In March 2025, the CBFC officially blocked the release, demanding multiple cuts to tone down “offensive” content.
Director Sandhya Suri expressed her surprise over the ban, stating, “The issues we raise are not new. I was surprised by the reaction because similar themes have been handled in many Indian films.”
Lead actor Shahana Goswami described the digital release as an emotional milestone. “It’s a beautifully written story that holds up a mirror to the world we live in. The film has travelled the world and received love from audiences everywhere. Now, I can’t wait for people in India to finally watch it,” she said. She also praised co-star Sunita Rajwar for her portrayal of a complex character, Geeta Sharma.
About the Film:
‘Santosh’ follows a young widow, Santosh, who inherits her late husband’s police job. While performing her duties, she is assigned to investigate the rape and murder of a Dalit teenager, forcing her to navigate a justice system riddled with bias and corruption. The film highlights the systemic challenges and moral dilemmas faced by those seeking truth in a flawed system.
From Cannes red carpets to censorship battles at home, ‘Santosh’ has already had a journey as dramatic as its plot. With its OTT release on October 17, Indian audiences will finally get to see the film in its original uncut version.
