No smoking and drinking in films if you want U/A certificate, says Pahlaj Nihalani

All those who felt the CBFC was acting in an anarchic manner all these days, might be in for a bigger shock. In a recent turn of events, CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani has asked filmmakers not to include smoking or drinking sequences in their films if they want a U/A certificate for the same.

In case showing alcohol is unavoidable, he suggests filmmakers to opt for ‘A’ certificate instead.

“Merely putting a ticker warning at some remote corner of the screen whenever there is smoking or drinking shown, is not enough anymore. We feel the superstars who are followed by millions and who set an example in societal behaviour must not be shown drinking or smoking on screen unless the provocation for doing so is really strong,” he was quoted saying. (Also Read: Pahlaj Nihalani slams a defamation case against IIFA organisers)

To this, the audience are raising legit questions as to why and how the CBFC never objected to shameless objectification of women, stalking and other traits that have been glorified in Bollywood films since years. Now that Indian films are growing in terms of content, isn’t such a restriction bizarre and uncalled for?

Ranjini Maitra

Journalist. Writer. Reader. Enthu cutlet. Mood-swing machine. Day dreamer. Sandwiched between ‘live life fully’ and ‘lose some weight’. Mantra of life: Love and love more.