‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ cleared for theatrical release in India on 19th June

Kaouther Ben Hania’s docu-drama, ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ is finally set to release in India on June 19. ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ has been given an ‘A’ certificate, as per reports.

Announcing the film’s release in India, Ben Hania took to social media and wrote, “Hind was a little girl whose voice should never have been silenced. Today, that voice will travel across South Asia and be heard by millions of people.”

She said that she had garnered support, adding that, “I have received messages from Indian journalists, filmmakers, activists, and ordinary citizens who supported The Voice of Hind Rajab and defended its right to be seen.”

The Gaza-based drama had initially been denied certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with the film’s local distributor stating that concerns over its political sensitivity and potential impact on India-Israel relations were cited as reasons for the decision. The film was subsequently reviewed by the CBFC’s revising committee.

Originally scheduled for release in India on March 6, the film faced delays during the certification process. Distributor Manoj Nandwana, head of Mumbai-based Jai Viratra Entertainment, had earlier said that the board considered the subject matter highly sensitive, as per reports.

Following the certification approval, Nandwana expressed gratitude to the CBFC for clearing the film without any cuts. He said the decision would allow Indian audiences to engage with the film and hoped it would encourage empathy, understanding, and meaningful discussions among viewers.

The film tells the story of six-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, who was killed by the Israeli forces during the Gaza war in 2024. The film incorporates audio from her final phone call to the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, capturing her voice in a moment that drew global attention.

It has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards.