Arabic version: الهند تمنع عرض فيلم غزة المرشح للأوسكار بسبب مخاوف دبلوماسية

The Indian film board has blocked the release of the Oscar-nominated Tunisian film, The Voice of Hind Rajab, which tells the story of a five-year-old girl who died during the Israel-Gaza war. The decision was made by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) following warnings that the film could negatively impact India-Israel relations.

According to The Guardian, Manoj Nandwana, the film’s Indian distributor, stated that he submitted the film for approval in February with hopes for a mid-March release. However, he was informed that the film had not received the necessary clearance. Nandwana expressed disbelief at the notion that the film could jeopardize the strong ties between India and Israel.

Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, The Voice of Hind Rajab features actual audio from a phone call made by the girl, Rajab, as she sought help during a bombing in Gaza City. The film was nominated for the best international feature film Oscar alongside It Was Just an Accident, The Secret Agent, and Sentimental Value, but ultimately did not win.

India’s support for Israel has been pronounced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has made diplomatic visits and signed agreements with the country. The CBFC has a history of blocking films that are politically sensitive, including the critically acclaimed film Santosh, which was pulled from release due to its portrayal of various societal issues.

Despite its release in other countries, including the US and UK, Nandwana noted that the CBFC remains intent on censoring the film in India. The board has not yet commented on this specific decision.