The end of an era
Pahlaj Nihalani, the veteran film producer and former chief of the Central Board of Film Certification, passed away in Mumbai on Thursday, June 4. He was 76. Family sources confirmed that he died due to age-related complications. The news has sent shockwaves across the film fraternity, with colleagues and friends pouring in their tributes.
Nihalani began his journey in the film industry as a producer in 1982 with Haathkadi. But his biggest claim to fame came when he launched Govinda in the 1986 hit Ilzaam. The duo went on to create a string of blockbusters including Shola Aur Shabnam (1992) and the cult comedy Aankhen (1993), which remains one of the highest-grossing films of its decade.
Industry pays heartfelt tribute
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared an emotional note on social media, calling Nihalani a prominent figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many actors and directors. He wrote, ‘Pahlaj ji was also among the industry’s leading distributors, having distributed several major films over the years… In addition, he was one of the most vocal and influential voices in the production sector.’
Kamaal R Khan (KRK) also offered his condolences, tweeting, ‘RIP Pahlaj Nihalani Sahab! You did a very good job as a filmmaker. We all have to follow you sir. This is the real truth of the life.’ The current CBFC Chairperson, Shashi Shekhar Vempati, expressed grief on behalf of the entire CBFC family.
A controversial tenure at CBFC
Nihalani served as the chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification from January 2015 to August 2017. His tenure was one of the most scrutinised and divisive chapters in Indian movie censorship. Despite the controversies, his contributions to Bollywood as a producer and distributor remain undeniable. Industry insiders say his legacy will be remembered through the films he backed and the careers he nurtured.