Oscar-nominated 'The Voice of Hind Rajab' Banned in India

New Delhi: The Oscar-nominated film The Voice of Hind Rajab, based on the life of five-year-old Hind Rajab, who was killed in a massacre by Israeli forces during the Gaza war, has been banned from screening in India, the Censor Board announced on Monday. This was confirmed by Manoj Nandwana of Mumbai-based Jai Viratra Entertainment.

There have been allegations that the film was denied a screening permit out of fear of Israel. Directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, the film was submitted for clearance to the Central Board of Film Certification in February. It was originally slated for release on March 6, ahead of the Oscars, which were scheduled to be announced on March 16.

The information suggests that the refusal to grant permission for the film’s screening stemmed from concerns about potential backlash. Manoj Nandwana revealed that there were worries the film might affect India-Israel relations. Director Kaouther Ben Hania had gained significant attention when she appeared at the Venice Film Festival with a photograph of the five-year-old girl from Palestine.