Tillotama Shome: Censorship Hinders Democratic Cinema

As Tillotama Shome marks her 25th year in the film industry, she has shared her perspective on the persistent issue of censorship in cinema. Her comments come in the wake of the film 'Satluj' being taken down from the Zee5 platform shortly after its release, sparking renewed debate. Shome, who began her career with 'Monsoon Wedding' in 2001, has witnessed significant technological shifts in filmmaking, noting that cinema, despite declarations of its demise, consistently evolves and thrives.

She articulated that the human instinct for storytelling remains vital and undying. However, the path of storytelling in filmmaking is often fraught with challenges, influenced by financial considerations and societal factors. Shome firmly advocates for the democratic right to access all forms of cinema, believing that adults are capable of discerning their own reactions to potentially triggering content.

Shome views censorship as a conflict between dominant and emerging voices, a dynamic that has historically shaped societal progress. She draws parallels to historical movements, asserting that overcoming such barriers is crucial for artistic and social evolution. Despite the difficulties, she maintains hope that the fundamental human need for storytelling will persevere through all obstacles.