Veteran Bollywood Producer and Former CBFC Chairman Pahlaj Nihalani Passes Away at 76

Mumbai (Vinod Tiwari): The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran filmmaker, producer, and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Chairman Pahlaj Nihalani, who passed away at the age of 76 in Mumbai. According to reports, Nihalani had been battling liver-related health complications for some time.

A prominent figure in Hindi cinema for over four decades, Nihalani played a significant role in shaping commercial Bollywood through a string of successful films and later became a key figure in India’s film certification system. Pahlaj Nihalani entered the film industry as a producer in the early 1980s. He quickly established himself as a successful producer of mainstream entertainers that resonated with audiences across the country. His notable productions included Ilzaam, Aag Hi Aag, Paap Ki Duniya, Shola Aur Shabnam, Aankhen, Andaz, and Talaash: The Hunt Begins, among these, Aankhen emerged as one of the biggest box-office successes of its era.

Nihalani is also widely credited for launching actor Govinda as a leading hero through Ilzaam, helping pave the way for one of Bollywood’s most successful acting careers.

In January 2015, Nihalani was appointed Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). His tenure became one of the most debated periods in the board’s history as he advocated stricter censorship guidelines and emphasized the protection of Indian cultural values.
Several high-profile films, including Spectre and Udta Punjab, became the center of public controversy during his tenure. While critics accused him of excessive censorship, supporters praised his efforts to uphold social and cultural sensitivities. His leadership sparked nationwide discussions on the balance between artistic freedom and responsible content. Beyond filmmaking and film certification, Nihalani also served as President of the Association of Pictures and TV Programme Producers, where he represented the interests of producers and contributed significantly to the growth and organization of India’s entertainment industry.


Pahlaj Nihalani leaves behind a legacy marked by blockbuster films, industry leadership, and passionate debates about cinema and censorship. Whether remembered as a successful producer, a strong administrator, or a controversial censor, his impact on Bollywood and India’s film certification framework remains undeniable. As tributes pour in from across the film fraternity, the contributions of Pahlaj Nihalani to Indian cinema will continue to be remembered for generations.