Chicago – March 27, 2026
India’s Central Board of Film Certification has reportedly blocked the release of Oscar-nominated docudrama The Voice of Hind Rajab, with distributors saying officials feared it could damage India-Israel ties. The film, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, tells the story of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, who was killed during Israel’s war in Gaza.
Distributor Manoj Nandwana said the film was submitted for approval in February and was denied after a screening for the CBFC. According to reports, officials suggested that releasing it could “break up the India-Israel relationship,” though the board has not publicly explained its decision.
The move comes as New Delhi deepens cooperation with Israel under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while criticism grows over censorship of politically sensitive films. The film had already drawn international attention after strong festival success and an Oscar nomination.
