Shocked and disgusted: Arundhati Roy withdraws from Berlin Film Festival over jury’s silence about Palestine ‘genocide’

Arundhati Roy, the acclaimed Indian author and activist, has opted out of the Berlin International Film Festival, where she was scheduled to present her latest film. Her decision stems from the festival jury's head, Wim Wenders, declining to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the allegations of genocide against Palestinians. Roy expressed her outrage, stating that silence in the face of such atrocities is unacceptable. The festival, known for celebrating cinematic achievements, is now at the center of controversy for its perceived indifference to key global issues. Roy's withdrawal highlights the intersection of art and activism, as she calls for greater awareness and responsibility within the cinematic community regarding pressing political matters. This incident underscores the broader discourse on the role of artists in advocating for social justice, particularly in light of the current conflict in Gaza. Roy's stance resonates with many who believe that cultural platforms should not shy away from addressing significant humanitarian crises.