From bollywood producer to censorship storm: the complicated legacy of Pahlaj Nihalani

Former CBFC chairperson and Bollywood producer Pahlaj Nihalani has passed away at the age of 76 after reportedly battling liver-related health issues. From producing commercial entertainers like Aankhen, Shola Aur Shabnam and Paap Ki Duniya to becoming one of India’s most controversial censor board chiefs, Nihalani remained a polarising figure in Bollywood for decades. His tenure as CBFC chief between 2015 and 2017 sparked massive debates around censorship, morality and creative freedom, with controversies surrounding films like Udta Punjab, Lipstick Under My Burkha and When Harry Met Sejal making national headlines. Here’s a look back at the dramatic and debated legacy of Pahlaj Nihalani.