Veteran Bollywood producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani passed away in Mumbai on June 4, 2026, at the age of 76 following a prolonged battle with liver-related complications, including cirrhosis. Best known for producing films such as Aankhen, Andaz, Talaash, Julie 2 and Rangeela Raja, he remained an influential figure in Indian cinema for more than four decades.
Tributes have poured in from across the film industry, with colleagues remembering both his contribution to commercial filmmaking and his controversial tenure as CBFC chief. His death marks the end of an important chapter in Bollywood and India’s film certification history.
Veteran Producer, Former CBFC Chief Dies At 76
The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of Pahlaj Nihalani, a producer, industry representative and former CBFC chairperson whose career spanned several decades. He had reportedly been undergoing treatment for liver-related health issues and had remained unwell for months before his passing.
His death has prompted tributes from actors, filmmakers, producers and trade bodies, many of whom remembered him as a passionate and influential voice in Indian cinema. While opinions about his public positions often differed, there is broad recognition of the impact he had on both filmmaking and film governance.
From Bollywood Producer To Industry Veteran
Born in Karachi before Partition and later settling in India, Nihalani built a successful career in Bollywood by focusing on mainstream entertainment. He gained a reputation for understanding audience preferences and backing films that connected with viewers across the country.
Over the years, he produced several notable films, including Ilzaam, Shola Aur Shabnam, Aankhen, Andaz, Talaash, Julie 2 and Rangeela Raja. His 1993 blockbuster Aankhen became one of the highest-grossing films of its time and established him as a producer with a strong commercial instinct. His work reflected the changing landscape of Hindi cinema, helping him remain relevant through different generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Launching Talent And Building Careers
Nihalani is also remembered for his role in supporting talent within the industry. His association with actor Govinda remains one of Bollywood’s most successful producer-actor partnerships. Several of Govinda’s early successes came under Nihalani’s banner, contributing significantly to the actor’s rise as a major star during the 1990s.
Industry observers often credit Nihalani with recognising commercial talent and understanding what resonated with audiences. Beyond producing films, he played a role in helping shape careers and strengthening Bollywood’s mainstream entertainment culture.
The CBFC Years And National Debate
Although he was already well known within the film fraternity, Nihalani became a nationally recognised figure after being appointed chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification in 2015. His tenure quickly became one of the most debated periods in the board’s history. Several filmmakers and creative professionals criticised what they viewed as excessive censorship and restrictions on artistic expression. Nihalani consistently defended the board’s decisions, arguing that certification required balancing creative freedom with social responsibility.
The controversies surrounding film cuts and certification decisions sparked nationwide discussions about censorship, artistic liberty and the role of regulatory institutions. Whether viewed as a defender of cultural sensitivities or a symbol of overregulation, Nihalani played a central role in shaping these conversations.
From Regulator To Critic
Following his departure from the CBFC in 2017, Nihalani experienced the certification process from a different perspective when his film Rangeela Raja encountered difficulties in obtaining clearance.
He publicly criticised aspects of the system and raised concerns about fairness and consistency in certification decisions. The episode highlighted the complexities of India’s film certification framework and made him one of the few individuals who had experienced it both as a regulator and as a filmmaker.
A Polarising But Influential Figure
Throughout his career, Nihalani remained known for expressing his views openly on cinema, censorship and industry issues. His comments frequently generated public debate and often divided opinion.
However, even critics acknowledged his commitment to the film industry and his active involvement in addressing concerns faced by producers and filmmakers. His influence extended beyond the films he produced, making him one of the most recognisable voices in discussions surrounding Indian cinema and film regulation.
Industry Pays Tribute
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from across Bollywood. Colleagues remembered him as a dedicated industry veteran who contributed significantly to commercial Hindi cinema and remained deeply engaged with the industry throughout his life.
Many highlighted his role in producing successful films, supporting talent and participating in important conversations about cinema and governance. The widespread response reflected the scale of his influence and the respect he commanded within the industry.
The Legacy He Leaves Behind
Pahlaj Nihalani leaves behind a legacy that spans filmmaking, talent development, industry representation and film certification. He witnessed and influenced Bollywood’s evolution from the era of single-screen theatres to the age of multiplexes and digital platforms.
While opinions about his tenure as CBFC chief continue to vary, his impact on Indian cinema remains undeniable. He will be remembered both for the films he helped bring to audiences and for the debates he sparked about the relationship between creativity, regulation and public responsibility.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The passing of Pahlaj Nihalani marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cinema. His career demonstrates how public figures can leave behind legacies that are both celebrated and debated. While many remember him for producing popular films and supporting commercial cinema, others reflect on the discussions around censorship and creative freedom that defined his years at the CBFC.
At The Logical Indian, we believe that healthy societies grow through dialogue, empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. Nihalani’s journey highlights the importance of finding a balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility while encouraging constructive engagement rather than polarisation. As the industry reflects on his contributions, it also presents an opportunity to discuss how cinema can remain both creative and socially conscious in a rapidly changing world. How should India balance artistic freedom and public responsibility in cinema while ensuring that diverse voices continue to be heard?
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Veteran Indian producer and former CBFC Chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani passed away in Mumbai at the age of 76.#PahlajNihalani #CBFC #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/LBmsOeFwKc
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) June 4, 2026
