Actor Sunita Rajwar has expressed disappointment over the ban on her critically acclaimed film Santosh in India, despite its international recognition. Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh is the UK’s official entry to the Oscars 2025. However, the film has faced roadblocks in securing censor certification from the CBFC, preventing its release in India. Rajwar called the situation “disheartening,” especially given the film’s global praise and her powerful performance.
Speaking about her role, Rajwar shared that Santosh features one of her finest performances to date. “I’m sad because I’ve done something very different and meaningful in this film. Every artist wants their best work to be seen by audiences. But the censor board has asked for so many edits that releasing it as intended has become impossible,” said the actor, who will next be seen in Panchayat 4 on Prime Video. She added that the film’s producers are still trying, but the demands are too extensive.
Santosh is an international co-production set in rural north India and follows the story of a young Hindu widow, played by Shahana Goswami, who inherits her late husband’s job as a police constable. As she adjusts to her new life, she partners with Inspector Sharma, a seasoned detective played by Rajwar, to solve the brutal murder of a Dalit teenager. The film tackles themes of gender, caste, and institutional corruption, making its absence from Indian screens all the more significant.
