Filmmaker Sandhya Suri’s critically acclaimed police procedural, Santosh, is finally set to reach Indian audiences. After a tumultuous journey with the censor board that led to its delayed theatrical release in January, the powerful thriller will make its digital debut on Lionsgate Play on October 17.
The Indo-British production, featuring Shahana Goswami in the lead role and supported by Sunita Rajwar of Panchayat fame, first captivated global critics at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Premiering in the Un Certain Regard category, it garnered widespread praise for its fearless exploration of complex themes like caste, gender, and power dynamics. The film’s international recognition continued when it was selected as the United Kingdom’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars, highlighting its significant artistic merit.
Santosh delves into the compelling narrative of its namesake protagonist, a young widow who secures a position in the police department as a compassionate appointment following her husband’s death. What begins as a seemingly routine placement swiftly evolves into a profound challenge when she is tasked with investigating the rape and murder of a Dalit teenager. Partnered with Inspector Sharma, played brilliantly by Rajwar, Santosh finds herself navigating a treacherous environment where truth is often obscured by prejudice, powerful individuals are shielded, and the justice system can be manipulated by those in control.
The film, produced by Good Chaos, Cinefrance Studios, and MetFilm Production, initially faced a theatrical release on January 10 in India. However, this plan was brought to a standstill due to a prolonged disagreement with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Reports indicated a “classic case of gross disagreement” between the filmmakers, who sought no cuts, and the board, which demanded substantial modifications. British-Indian filmmaker Suri elaborated in an interview that the censor board’s requested cuts were so extensive and sweeping that they would effectively render the film unrecognisable.
Shahana Goswami, celebrated for her roles in films and series like Rock On!!, Gali Guleiyan, and Bombay Begums, expressed her deep connection to Santosh. She described it as “a beautifully written story, depicted truthfully, holding up a mirror to us of the world we live in, that we have all helped create.” Goswami further commended director Sandhya Suri for crafting such a meaningful and moving piece. “The film has been shown all over the world, starting its journey at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, and has been greatly appreciated by critics and the public alike,” she added.
Goswami also lauded her co-stars, particularly praising Sunita Rajwar for her outstanding portrayal of Inspector Geeta Sharma. “It was a joy working with her and watching her become Geeta Sharma. You will see her in a completely new avatar. I cannot wait for everyone in India to finally be able to watch the film,” Goswami enthusiastically stated, anticipating the film’s long-awaited release.