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Santosh OTT release date announced: When and Where to Oscar shortlisted movie online after CBFC delays
ET Online | October 8, 2025 5:00 AM CST

Synopsis

After earning global acclaim at festivals like Cannes and BAFTA, Santosh, starring Shahana Goswami, is finally set for its OTT premiere. Directed by Sandhya Suri, the powerful police drama will stream on Lionsgate Play from October 17, 2025. The film follows a young widow who joins the police force after her husband’s death and becomes involved in a caste-based crime investigation that exposes corruption and gender inequality.

Santosh to Stream on Lionsgate Play
The critically acclaimed Hindi film Santosh, starring Shahana Goswami, is finally set to reach Indian audiences through digital streaming after receiving international recognition. Directed by Sandhya Suri, the feature has been celebrated at prestigious film festivals for its gripping narrative and socially relevant themes.

Santosh premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024 under the Un Certain Regard section and was later showcased at the BFI London Film Festival and MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. The film was shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category and served as the United Kingdom’s official entry in the foreign film segment. Additionally, it earned a nomination at the 78th British Academy Film Awards and was listed among the top five international films of 2024 by the National Board of Review.

Initially intended for theatrical release in India on January 10, 2025, the film faced delays due to issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Authorities requested changes to scenes addressing sensitive subjects like police misconduct, caste discrimination, and gender-based violence. The filmmakers refused these alterations to preserve the film’s integrity, delaying its release in its country of origin.



Plot Overview

Santosh follows the journey of a young widow, played by Shahana Goswami, who assumes her late husband’s police position through compassionate appointment. What begins as a symbolic role quickly evolves into a challenging reality when she is tasked with investigating the rape and murder of a Dalit teenager. Working alongside Inspector Geeta Sharma, portrayed by Sunita Rajwar, Santosh confronts a justice system where evidence is manipulated, perpetrators are protected, and societal biases are rampant. The film explores the intersection of caste, gender, and institutional power while highlighting the personal and professional challenges faced by a female officer in rural India.

Shahana Goswami on Santosh

As per ANI, Goswami described the film as extremely close to her heart, praising the authenticity of the story and Sandhya Suri’s direction. She highlighted the performances of her co-stars, especially Sunita Rajwar, noting her portrayal of Inspector Sharma as particularly compelling. Goswami expressed her excitement about Indian audiences finally experiencing a story that has already received widespread acclaim internationally.
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