India blocks release of Gaza docudrama citing diplomatic sensitivities
New Delhi — India has blocked the theatrical release of The Voice of Hind Rajab, an Oscar-nominated film about the killing of a Palestinian child in Gaza, with the distributor saying certification authorities indicated it could affect ties with Israel.
The film, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, recounts the death of five-year-old Hind Rajab during Israel’s war with Hamas. Manoj Nandwana of Jai Viratra Entertainment, the film’s Indian distributor, said a member of the Central Board of Film Certification told him the release would “hamper India’s relations with Israel,” though he added no formal written rejection had been issued.
Nandwana said that after screening the film for the board, it became clear it would not be cleared for theatrical release. He questioned the decision, noting the film had been screened internationally, including in Israel.
The film had earlier been shown at an international festival in Kolkata in November, according to the distributor.
India’s certification process requires approval from the Central Board of Film Certification for public exhibition, with decisions sometimes reflecting broader sensitivities tied to law and order or diplomatic considerations.
New Delhi has strengthened strategic ties with Israel in recent years across defence, agriculture, technology and cybersecurity, while continuing to support Palestinian statehood in line with its longstanding foreign policy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel last month, his second trip since 2017, shortly before Israel and the United States launched airstrikes on Iran, underscoring the evolving geopolitical context.
Opposition lawmaker Shashi Tharoor criticised the move, calling it “disgraceful” and arguing that restricting films over potential diplomatic sensitivities undermines freedom of expression in a democracy.
“The Voice of Hind Rajab” was nominated for Best International Feature at this year’s Academy Awards but did not win. It received the Silver Lion grand jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, where it drew strong audience reactions at its premiere.
