India Blocks Release of ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ Due to Political Sensitivities

The Indian Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked the theatrical release of Kaouther Ben Hania’s Oscar-nominated film “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” citing political sensitivity. The film tells the tragic story of a 5-year-old Palestinian girl who died after being trapped in a car attacked by Israeli forces in Gaza. The distributor, Manoj Nandwana of Jai Viratra Entertainment, submitted the film for approval in February, ahead of a planned March 6 release, but was informed that releasing it could jeopardize India’s relationship with Israel. The decision comes shortly after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel in late February, which marked the first Indian premier visit in 25 years and aimed to strengthen economic and technological ties. Nadawana criticized the CBFC decision, noting that the film has already been released in several countries, including the U.S., U.K., Italy, and France, without diplomatic consequences. The CBFC did not respond to requests for comment. The film has previously received critical acclaim, including a world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the Silver Lion. This censorship follows a recent pattern of the CBFC blocking politically sensitive films, such as Sandya Suri’s “Santosh.”