'Padmaavat', 'The Kashmir Files' to 'Udta Punjab': Bollywood films that overcame CBFC bans to hit the big screen

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus 'Padmaavat' faced protests, a title change (from Padmavati), and was initially held back by the CBFC due to its portrayal of historical events. After modifications and disclaimers, it was finally released, becoming one of Bollywood’s biggest hits.

Shekhar Kapur’s 'Bandit Queen', based on the life of Phoolan Devi, was initially banned due to its explicit scenes of violence and sexual assault. The film faced legal battles but was eventually released, gaining critical acclaim worldwide.

Anurag Kashyap’s 'Black Friday', based on Hussain Zaidi’s book about the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, was banned for nearly three years. The Supreme Court cleared its release after the case’s legal proceedings concluded.

Deepa Mehta’s 'Fire', one of Bollywood’s first mainstream films depicting a same-sex relationship, faced severe backlash and a temporary ban. After protests from activists, it was later released with minor modifications.

CBFC initially denied certification to this feminist drama, calling it “too lady-oriented.” After a public outcry and support from the film fraternity, the movie was eventually released with an “A” certificate.

Vivek Agnihotri’s controversial film on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits faced certification issues due to its sensitive subject. Despite initial pushback, the film was cleared and went on to become a blockbuster.

This hard-hitting drama about Punjab’s drug crisis was almost blocked by the CBFC, which demanded 89 cuts. The filmmakers fought back in court, and the Bombay High Court allowed the film’s release with only one cut.