Renowned film producer Pahlaj Nihalani passes away; Was known for strict censorship

The Hindi film industry is mourning the loss of veteran producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani, who passed away at 76. Family friend Shashi Ranjan confirmed the news of his demise. Nihalani had been battling health issues for some time and breathed his last at home after being discharged from Nanavati Hospital.

Nihalani was a monumental figure in Bollywood, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. He was credited with launching the careers of stars like Govinda in Ilzaam (1986) and Chunky Panday in Aag Hi Aag (1987). His 1993 production Aankhen, starring both actors, remains one of the biggest commercial successes in Indian cinema history. Throughout his prolific career, he backed numerous hits, including Shola Aur Shabnam, Paap Ki Duniya, and Andaz.

Beyond production, Nihalani served as the chairperson of the CBFC from 2015 to 2017. His tenure was marked by a series of high-profile controversies due to his rigid censorship policies. Films such as Udta Punjab, Lipstick Under My Burkha, and the James Bond film Spectre faced significant hurdles under his leadership, sparking national debates on creative freedom. Despite the friction, he remained a steadfast voice in the industry, also serving as the president of the Association of Motion Picture and TV Programme Producers for nearly thirty years.

His extensive filmography spans decades, with notable works including Haathkadi, Aag Ka Gola, Dil Tera Diwana, and more recently, Julie 2 and Rangeela Raja. Nihalani’s legacy is defined by his sharp eye for commercial cinema and his unwavering, though often debated, commitment to his vision of film certification. He is survived by a body of work that helped shape the landscape of mainstream Bollywood.