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Filmmaker Pahlaj Nihalani Dies at 76
4 Jun
Summary
- Pahlaj Nihalani, known for films like 'Aankhen,' died on June 4, 2026.
- He previously served as the chairperson of the CBFC.
- Nihalani was reportedly battling a liver-related ailment.
Veteran film producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani died on June 4, 2026. He was 76 and passed away at his home in Mumbai, with his last rites scheduled for later that day.
Nihalani, who began his career in the early 1980s, produced several successful Bollywood films including 'Haathkadi,' 'Ilzaam,' 'Shola Aur Shabnam,' and the 1990s blockbuster 'Aankhen.' He also produced the 2017 film 'Julie 2.' His tenure as CBFC chairperson from 2015 was marked by controversy due to his stringent approach to film censorship.
During his time at the CBFC, Nihalani implemented stricter guidelines and proposed numerous cuts for films, notably clashing with filmmakers over content. His political leanings were also evident when he produced a promotional song for Narendra Modi's 2014 election campaign. He was replaced as CBFC chairman in 2017.
Reports suggest Nihalani had been ill for the past four months, battling a liver-related ailment, identified as liver cirrhosis. His family has not publicly disclosed the exact cause of his death.
