Arundhati Roy Pulls Out Of Berlinale 2026 After Jury's Gaza Remarks; Calls Refusal To Engage 'Jaw-Dropping'

Renowned Indian author Arundhati Roy has announced her withdrawal from the Berlinale 2026 film festival, criticizing the jury's reluctance to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a pointed statement, she labeled the situation as 'genocide' against the Palestinian people, highlighting her discontent with the festival's apparent silence on such critical global issues. Roy's decision has ignited discussions about the responsibilities of cultural platforms in acknowledging and engaging with pressing political matters. This withdrawal underscores a broader debate on how artists and intellectuals navigate the intersection of art and activism, especially in light of contemporary conflicts. As Roy's voice joins a growing chorus of international figures calling for accountability and awareness regarding the plight of Palestinians, her absence from the festival serves as a powerful statement on the necessity for cultural institutions to take a stand on human rights issues.